8 Days
from
$3,090 USD
/ person
Discover the highlights of the Central Asian gem Uzbekistan – Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara.
Uncover the timeless treasures and vibrant cultures of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on the Silk Road, influenced by centuries of ancient history.
Ideal For
Heritage & Culture
Nature & Landscapes
Wine & Food
Itinerary Summary
Day
Place
Hotel Opts
1 - 3
3 - 5
5 - 7
7 - 9
9 - 12
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - 3
International Arrival
You will be transferred from Bishkek airport to your hotel in a private vehicle
2 Nights
Bishkek
Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is often used by travelers as a gateway to the majestic Tian Shan Mountains. The high glaciers of Kyrgyzstan's Ala Too Mountains and the Ala Archa National Park with rare wild animals and beautiful hiking trails are also easily accessible from the city. What is less known is that the city of Bishkek also has a lot to offer in terms of culture, art, traditional bazaars and food. The State Museum of Fine Arts, the Opera and Ballet House and Ala Too Square in the center are also worth a visit. Browse the Osh Bazaar, a major landmark offering traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts as well as nomadic hats and clothing. Kyrgyzstan's diverse culinary scene combines the cultures of the nomadic and sedentary peoples of Central Asia with those of China and India. Gourmets will find a wide selection of dishes here. Look forward to “beshbarmak”, tender lamb with noodles and broth, or the fragrant rice dish “pilaf” with refreshing tea.
Included activities
Personalized Hiking Tour of Ala Archa National Park
Experience the natural beauty of Ala Archa National Park on a hiking tour. In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the park located on the slopes of the Kyrgyz Mountain Range. Altitudes here range from 4,900 to 16,059 ft and there are trails of varying levels of difficulty. Along the way, discuss your preferences with your experienced guide and they will tailor the hike based on your fitness level. On reaching the picturesque valley, you could head along the Ala Archa River trail, also known as the Ala Archa Valley trail. For a more challenging route, follow the Ak-Sai Waterfall trail that winds its way along a ridge above the river and involves steep ascents. While you walk on the marked paths, take in scenic views of the snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows and the coniferous forest. Nearly 800 plant and 40 animal species are found here. Take a break from hiking to enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot. After, drive back to your hotel in Bishkek. (Duration: full day; Time: 0900 hrs: Private activity & transfers; Meals included: picnic lunch; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: moderate; Please wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a water bottle, snacks, polarized sunglasses, rain jacket and sun hat; Best time to travel: May – Sep)
Personalized Bishkek Highlights Tour
Visit the prominent attractions in the capital city of Bishkek. Travel by private vehicle to Ala-Too Square, located at the heart of the city. A popular venue for celebrating festivals and national holidays, the square was built in 1984 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic. Your knowledgeable guide will point out the statue and the fountain. The State Historical Museum, considered one of the largest of its kind in Central Asia, borders the square. At the nearby Oak Park, you could enjoy a leisurely stroll among the gushing fountains and check out the open air sculpture museum. Afterwards, you will be dropped off at your hotel. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May-Jun/Sep – Oct)
Hotel options
My Hotel Bishkek - Opt 1
Room
Standard Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
Boutique
Ramada by Wyndham Bishkek Centre - Opt 2
Room
Standard Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
International
Day 3 - 5
You will be transferred from your hotel to Bishkek airport in a private vehicle
Board your flight from Bishkek to Tashkent (Duration: 1hr, Economy Class)
You will be transferred from Tashkent airport to your hotel in a private vehicle
2 Nights
Tashkent
Experience Uzbekistan's ancient Silk Road heritage in the modern capital of Tashkent. Intricately built mosques with turquoise tile accents stand alongside brutalist Soviet-era buildings and contemporary structures. Aromas of fresh local 'non' breads waft through the air every morning, and mostly white-colored vehicles ply the roads! The region's traditional rice dish is best tasted at the Central Asian Plov Center. Next to the landmark Hotel Uzbekistan, the fountained Independence Square dotted with its monuments and manicured gardens, is ideal for people-watching. Amir Temur Museum offers a lesson in the region's rich history, and the expansive Hazrat Imam complex houses the world's oldest Quran. Within a blue-colored dome in the old town, the vibrant and bustling Charsu Bazaar showcases an assortment of food and crafts stalls, while offering a glimpse into local Uzbek life. Tashkent's plush underground metro stations from the 1960s are the first-of-its-kind in Central Asia and are individually designed with exquisite features that tell stories of the past.
Included activities
Personalized Tashkent Highlights Tour with Metro Ride
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, on this full-day tour. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at the appointed time. As you wander through the streets, you will come across elegant European structures from the Turkestan Governorate General era, imposing Soviet-era buildings, and the blue domes of mosques and madrasas. Visit the Old City to see the historic Khast-Imam Complex, home to the world-renowned Quran of Caliph Uthman – Ottoman. Your guide will lead you through the complex and show you the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya-Sheikh Mosque, the Mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. From there proceed to the Kukeldash Madrasah, located near the famous Chorsu Bazaar in the Old City. Experience the bustling atmosphere of Chorsu Bazaar, one the most famous historical sites in Tashkent. Then take a ride on Tashkent Metro, considered to be one of the most beautiful metro systems in the world. Travel to the city center, where you will visit the Applied Arts Museum and stroll through Navoi Theater to reach Amir Timur Square, the main town square. (Duration: 6 hrs; Time: flexible; Private activity & transfers; Meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May - Jun/Sep – Oct)
Group Uzumfermer Winery Tour
Tour the family-owned Uzumfermer Winery, located on the outskirts of Tashkent. Spread across 52 acres, the estate features an expansive garden and a restaurant with terrace. The garden with 1,500 botanic species has a pond and ornate gazebos. Begin with a stroll through the vineyard and tour the winemaking facility, which is equipped with Italian winemaking machinery. Gain insight into the production process that utilizes six international and one proprietary cultivation method. Grape varieties such as Saperavi, Hadji Murat, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon thrive here. The in-house wine selection includes 11 varieties including red, white, rose and fruit wines, ranging from dry to sweet. End the tour at the tasting room, where you can try the finest Uzbek wines against the backdrop of the Chimgan Mountains. Sample famous labels such as Jupiter, Dali, Muscatel and Nuara to round out your visit. (Duration: 1 hr; Shared activity; Private transfers; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May- Jun/Sep – Oct)
Hotel options
Milan Hotel Tashkent - Opt 1
Room
Deluxe Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
International
Mercure Hotel Tashkent - Opt 2
Room
Deluxe Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
International
Day 5 - 7
You will be transferred from your hotel to Tashkent airport in a private vehicle
Board your flight from Tashkent to Urgench (Duration: 0.5hrs, Economy Class)
You will be transferred from Urgench airport to your hotel in a private vehicle
2 Nights
Khiva
In western Uzbekistan, explore the open-air museum city of Khiva, located in the southern delta of the Amu Darya River. Once notorious for the slave trade, today's Khiva enchants with its impressive architecture, vibrant crafts, local music and distinctive food. The bustling historic center and winding streets are lined with ocher walls, many decorated with ornate tiles in various shades of blue. The Itchan Kala center is home to countless museums, mosques, mausoleums and minarets. The 218-columned Juma Mosque offers a pleasant respite from the bustling surroundings, and the towering Islam Hojja Minaret offers panoramic views of Khiva. Also visit the Tash Hauli Palace, with elements of secular Khorezm architecture, and the Pakhlavan Makhmud complex, which honors Khiva's patron saint and his family. In Dishon Kala, beyond the inner ramparts, are more modern attractions from the 19th and 20th centuries, such as the opulent Isfandiyar Palace
Included activities
Personalized Khiva Highlights Walking Tour
Explore the many historical wonders contained within the city of Khiva in Uzbekistan. Your guide will meet you at your hotel in the morning. Set out on foot for Ichan-Kala Fortress, the walled inner city of Khiva, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Taj-Khovli Palace, see the Kalta-Minor minaret, and discover the Juma Mosque. Your guide will also show you the Mukhammad Aminkhan Madrasah and the Mukhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah. Treat yourself to lunch before visiting the Mausoleum of Makhmud Pakhlavan, the famous 14th-century poet and warrior. The complex was built in 1701 and the dome of the mausoleum is covered with blue glazed tiles. From there proceed to one of the oldest buildings in the city – the Mausoleum of Sayid-Allauddin, the famous Eastern saint and Sufi sheik. This was originally completed in the second half of the 14th century, and has been restored a number of times since. Visit the Islam Khoja complex, home to the second largest minaret in Khiva. Finally, make your way to Allakuli Khan Madrasah. Built in the middle of the 19th century, it is considered to have the richest decorations of all the monuments in the city. (Duration: 6 hrs; Time: flexible; Private activity & transfers; Meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May- Jun/Sep – Oct)
Hotel options
Hotel Bankir Khiva - Opt 1
Room
Deluxe Room
Meals
Room only
Style
Boutique
Hotel Bankir Khiva - Opt 2
Room
Superior Room
Meals
Room only
Style
Boutique
Day 7 - 9
Your chauffeur will drive you from Khiva to Bukhara in a private vehicle. (Duration: 6.5hrs)
2 Nights
Bukhara
In central Uzbekistan, discover Bukhara, a romantic oasis rising from the red sands of the Kyzylkum Desert on the ancient Silk Road. Bukhara is considered the holiest city in Central Asia and in times past served as an interface for ideas, cultures and religions between Asia and Europe. The atmospheric streets are flanked by heritage buildings with outstanding Islamic architecture. Discover well-preserved 16th-century mosques, minarets, mausoleums, and religious schools or “madrassas” in the Po-i-Kalyan complex. Admire the distinctive turquoise domes and intricately designed facades. Between walks in Bukhara's Old Town, traditional tea houses around the leafy Lyab-i-Hauz Square offer the prospect of relaxing breaks while local residents play a game of dominoes and chillum pipes are passed around. Covered bazaars, especially the souvenir stalls in Chor Minor, present the region's special products. The caravanserai hostel and the bathhouse ruins bear witness to Bukhara's eventful travel and trading history. The Ark Citadel's many museums, which have housed local emirs since the fifth century, provide insights into the city's rich past. The towers of the property offer wonderful panoramic views of Bukhara.
Included activities
Personalized Walking Tour of Bukhara
Explore the UNESCO-listed old town area of Bukhara on foot. At the scheduled time, meet your knowledgeable guide and begin your day with a visit to Ismail Samani Mausoleum, also known as the Samanid Mausoleum. Considered one of the oldest monuments in the city, this landmark of precise geometric proportions sits within a sprawling park. Next, walk to the nearby Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum where you will also see the holy spring believed to have healing powers. As you walk around, your knowledgeable guide will tell you about the history and legends associated with the site. There is also a Museum of Water, chronicling the history of water supply in Bukhara, on the premises. Then, head to the 18th-century Bolo Haouz Mosque with its impressive twenty-pillared hall. At the iconic 5th-century Ark of Bukhara, learn how this spectacular fortress once functioned as a city within a city. Take a break from exploring to buy yourself lunch at one of the restaurants in the area, before heading to the Poi-Kalyan architectural complex. Here, you will see four 12th-century monuments, each featuring its own distinctive style of architecture. The approximately 150-feet high Kalyan Minaret, the 16th-century Kalyan Mosque and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah distinguished by its blue tiles, are all here. There’s also the Emir Alim Khan Madrasah with its large courtyard and a bathhouse section. Your itinerary includes Ulugbek Madrasah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah as well. Wind up your tour at the Lyabi-Khauz ensemble that consists of Kukeldash Madrasah, a khanqah or lodge for Sufis, and the Nadir Divan-begi Madrasah. (Duration: 6 hrs ; Private activity; Transfers not required; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May -Jun/Sep – Oct)
Group Folklore Show with Dinner
Discover the beauty of Uzbekistan’s culture through its many national dances. Each region of the country has its own dance traditions. The best way to see them all is the folklore show at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah in Bukhara. You will be picked up from your hotel in the evening and driven to the venue. The performance will take place on a stage set in the inner courtyard of the madrasah, which dates to the 17th century. The musicians will be seated behind the stage, with the other three sides containing tables for guests. There are also a few shops offering Uzbek clothing, accessories, ceramics, souvenirs, and gifts. The show will begin once the sun starts to set, and the temperature gets a little cooler. Over the course of an hour, watch dances from the Fergana, Khorezm, Bukhara, Andijan, and Tajik regions, accompanied by Uzbek folk music and popular Arabic songs. During breaks between dance performances, Uzbek fashion designers will showcase their works. Enjoy a meal of local dishes while you watch the dances. After the show, you will be driven back to your hotel. (Duration: 1 hr; Time: 1930 hrs; Private transfers; Shared activity; Meals included: dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May – Jun/Sep – Oct , show subject to weather condition)
Personalized Bukhara Highlights Tour
Discover the prominent attractions of the ancient city of Bukhara. At a convenient time, travel by private vehicle to the UNESCO-listed Chor-Bakr Memorial Complex, also known as Sumitan’s cemetery. Accompany your knowledgeable guide around the large courtyard, enclosed by high walls, and the cluster of buildings that include a mausoleum, a mosque, and a madrasah or religious school. Next, travel to the Sitori-i-Mokhi Khosa, a palace that served as the country residence of the last ruler of Bukhara. Get a good look at the ornate interiors that now house a museum, as your guide tells you about the history of the region. After, visit Naqshbandi, an important Muslim shrine. Your last stop for the day is the residence-turned-museum of Fayzulla Khodzhayev, a wealthy local politician and merchant. Built over the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this sprawling complex is home to smaller buildings. The interiors give a glimpse of life in that era and showcase fine examples of period furniture, art and ceramics. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May - Jun/Sep – Oct)
Hotel options
Mehrob Hotel Bukhara - Opt 1
Room
Standard Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
Boutique
Mercure Bukhara Old Town - Opt 2
Room
Classic Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
Resort
Day 9 - 12
You will be transferred from your hotel to Bukhara train station in a private vehicle
Board your train from Bukhara to Samarkand (Duration: 2 hrs, Economy Class)
You will be transferred from the Samarkand train station to your hotel in a private vehicle
3 Nights
Samarkand
Visit the spectacular city of Samarkand, a famous trading hub of Uzbekistan on the ancient Silk Road. This legendary jewel of Central Asia features both modern development and architectural masterpieces from the Timurid dynasty. The beautiful Registan Square is illuminated 24 hours a day and is the heart of the city. Surrounded by three religious schools or “madrassas”, the main bazaar once took place in the tree-shaded inner courtyard. Today, the dazzling Siab Bazaar is the center of local commerce, offering a variety of products from bread to spices. The pedestrian zone on historic Tashkent Street, lined with craft shops and carpet boutiques, is dominated by the expansive Bibi Khanum Mosque. The Hazrat Hizr Mosque, fascinating mausoleums such as Timur's Gur-E-Amir and the Shah-i-Zinda mortuary, which is constantly under construction, bathe the cityscape in various shades of blue. Also explore Samarkand's oldest ruins in Afrasiyab and the ancient Ulugbek Observatory, or enjoy a tasting at winemaker Horvenko.
Included activities
Personalized Samarkand Highlights Tour
Experience the charms of the historic city of Samarkand. At the scheduled time, travel by private vehicle to the Gur-i-Amir mausoleum dating back to the 15th century. The final resting place of the Mongol conqueror Timur, the complex also houses the tombs of his descendants, a khanqah or lodge for Sufis, and an ancient madrasah or religious school. Next, stop at the UNESCO-listed Registan Square located at the heart of the city. Your guide will point out the fine examples of architecture surrounding the square. There is also a bustling bazaar packed with traditional stalls displaying souvenirs and local handicrafts. You could take a break from exploring to treat yourself to an Uzbek meal. Later, continue your tour at the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, distinguished by its massive dome, often known as the ‘Pearl of Samarkand’. At the lively Siab Bazaar, interact with the vendors as they hawk their wares comprising fresh produce, spices and baked goods. The last stop on your itinerary is the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, otherwise called the ‘Tomb of the Living King’. Here, you will find eleven mausoleums, built between the 14th and 15th centuries, showcasing exquisite tile and terracotta work. After the tour winds up, you will be dropped off at your hotel. (Duration: full day; Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May-Jun/Sep – Oct)
Personalized Visit to Mitan Village with Cooking Class & Meal with a Local Family
Experience rural life in Uzbekistan, on this guided excursion to Mitan Village. See how the locals live and get acquainted with their culture. Mitan is a semi-urban settlement in the Ishtykhan region of Samarkand, located on the slopes of the Nuratau Mountains. Upon arrival, meet your host family and join them to make ‘palov’ or ‘pilaf’, a classic main dish of Central Asian countries. It consists of small slices of beef or lamb and aromatic rice, simmered with julienned carrots, onions, raisins and chickpeas. This hearty dish is prepared in a ‘Kazan’, a large, round, deep-bottomed pot of cast iron with two or four handles. Then, enjoy the robust fare paired with salads and round out the meal with seasonal fruits. Later, go on a stroll through the village and take in the rural beauty of your surroundings, before returning to Samarkand.(Duration: full day; Seasonal: May-Jun & Sep-Oct; Private activity & transfers; Travel time to activity: 1.5 hrs each way; Meals included: lunch; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy)
Personalized Tour of Konigil Paper Factory
Discover the ancient art of papermaking on a tour of the Meros Paper Factory in the village of Konigil. At a convenient time, you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the quiet hamlet. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you how the factory, founded by two brothers, has revived the centuries-old art of paper making. Step back in time at the riverside factory and get a behind-the-scenes look at the age old techniques used to craft paper by hand. Watch the skilled artisans use the water wheel to transform mulberry bark into a delicate pulp. The pulp is then shaped into beautiful and durable sheets of paper that are used to write calligraphy on and create miniature paintings. This naturally made paper has a long life and a distinctive tint. After, get a peek into life in the village and learn about local customs and traditions. You could also explore the sprawling fields of cotton and sesame as well as the fruit orchards before it is time to head back. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: May-Jun/Sep – Oct)
Hotel options
Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel - Opt 1
Room
Standard Room
Meals
Room Only
Style
Boutique
Zarafshon Parkside Hotel - Opt 2
Room
Classic Room
Meals
Room only
Style
Boutique
You will be transferred from your hotel to Samarkand airport in a private vehicle
International Departure
Embark on an enchanting cultural journey through two of Asia’s hidden gems. Your adventure begins with a guided hike in the pristine Ala Archa National Park, which is located on the slopes of the Kyrgyz Mountain Range.
An assortment of historical delights awaits you in Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand. Marvel at UNESCO-listed mosques, palaces, and mausoleums, and savor the lively atmosphere of traditional bazaars on guided tours with a local expert.
You will also get to delve deeper into the region’s culture with our assortment of hand-picked experiences. Watch traditional dance performances at a 17th-century madrassa, sample Uzbek wines, and learn how to make ‘palov’ (a rice and meat dish) at the charming home of a local family.
Price & Inclusions
Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.
Price Includes
- Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
- Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
- Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
- Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
- Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
- Tips and personal expenses
- Visa and tourism fees
- Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
- International airfare
What Our Guests Say
Enchanting Travels did an excellent job of planning, coordinating, and executing our trip. This was our first trip with Enchanting Travels and we would definitely recommend them and we will definitely use them again. They have an outstanding staff and listened to our needs and developed a trip within our budget. While I was skeptical about having a coordinator in another country, it worked; when we needed help addressing issues, which were minor, they were on it quickly and efficiently and effectively. This is a first rate operation.
Stephen Goldman
USA
We used Enchanting Travels for our honeymoon in Japan, and the entire experience was seamless from start to finish. They handled everything, making the planning completely stress-free, even down to details like the best seats on the train if you have luggage with you and timing train arrivals to match hotel check in times. Every activity they arranged was absolutely top-tier. The local guides they booked were standout—knowledgeable, flexible, and always ready to adjust or enhance our plans. We couldn’t help but feel fortunate compared to others on group tours, as we had private guides who made us feel like VIPs throughout the trip. The app they provided was also a great tool, keeping everything organized and easily accessible. Thanks to them, our honeymoon was even more memorable than we could have imagined. Highly recommend them for any trip!
Sean Fitzgerald
USA
What a beautiful time we had in Japan! Can’t wait to go back! Shannon created the most personalized trip for my husband and myself. Everything that was important for us to see or do in Japan she made it happen! Could not ask for a better trip or experience! Emma Silk was there for us the entire journey. She even left me a tea ceremony kit to keep in our first hotel. Enchanting Travels goes above and beyond on their trips and for their customers! We highly recommend. Love, Joel and Tracy Padgett. ♥️😊
Tracy Padgett
USA
Japan was incredible. Experiencing Tokyo and Kyoto was a great balance that showcased the true beauty of this country and its culture. My itinerary had great structure and I never had a worry. I left feeling like there's nothing more I could've seen or done to make my trip better and I think that's all anyone can ask for!
Darren Waller
USA
Enchanting Travels delivers exceptional, personalized travel experiences through their attention to detail. Nothing seems to be too different or not possible. They make it happen. Knowing you have a trip coordinator that is available to you 24/7 gives you a special peace of mind and allows you to focus on your destination and enjoying your trip without concern for the details coming together.
Rhonda Ramey
USA
We are truly grateful to have come across Enchanting Travels. After my husband and I tried to plan our trip ourselves...we made the right choice paying for the package we did. It was truly a wonderful experience being able to not worry about transportation and having guides (Keiko & Taku were AMAZING) teach us about the culture, history, and much more. We signed up to have more of the private transfer in Japan than public - so worth it! Everyone was on time and very prompt for every activity we were doing. We just can't say enough and we will be going to Japan again. Thank you Enchanting Travels!
Lauren Morris
USA
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes and architecture of the Silk Road, including Bishkek’s vibrant culture, Cholpon-Ata, and the historical treasures of Uzbekistan.
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