Highlights tour of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan
Accommodation, guides, transport, a flight and 2 train journeys included. 20% deposit, balance 30 days before tour starting date.
Highlights tour of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan Highlights
Set off on a group journey across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, where snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and ancient Silk Road cities await. Begin in Almaty, Kazakhstan's leafy former capital, before venturing into the dramatic red rock formations of Charyn Canyon. Continue to the alpine Kolsay Lakes, often called the "Pearls of the Tian Shan", and the submerged forest of Kaindy Lake, where sunken spruce trees rise from crystal-clear water. Crossing into Kyrgyzstan, explore Karakol, the red cliffs of Jeti-Oguz Gorge and the fairy-tale rock formations of Skazka Canyon.
The journey continues with a taste of nomadic life in Bokonbaevo village, home to Kyrgyzstan's eagle-hunting traditions, and a felt-making master class in Kochkor before arriving in Bishkek. From there, fly to Uzbekistan for the heart of the Silk Road: the vibrant streets of Tashkent, the majestic monuments of Samarkand and the beautifully preserved old town of Bukhara. An optional 14-day version adds the walled city of Khiva.
Difficulty: Easy Easy sightseeing tour with optional moderate sections: the walk of about 40 minutes down into Charyn Canyon to the river (and back up) and the walk down the hillside to Kaindy Lake. Several long road days of 200–440 km, one land border crossing (Kegen) and the Shymbulak cable car up to about 3,200 m.
Guaranteed departures
Every date runs as scheduled. Same price on all departures.
Guaranteed tour dates 2027
| Dates | Days | Price | Book |
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| – Available | Sat – Thu | $2,570 |
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| – Available | Sat – Thu | $2,570 |
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| – Available | Sat – Thu | $2,570 |
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| – Available | Sat – Thu | $2,570 |
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| – Available | Sat – Thu | $2,570 |
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| – Available | Sat – Thu | $2,570 |
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Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Almaty in the early morning and transfer to the hotel for some well-deserved rest after the flight. Later, begin your introduction to Kazakhstan’s largest city, beautifully situated beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan. Start with a visit to the lively Green Bazaar, followed by a walk through Panfilov Park, home to the impressive wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame. Continue to Kok-Tobe Hill, one of Almaty’s most famous viewpoints, offering spectacular panoramic views across the city and surrounding mountains. Descend by cable car before continuing into the mountains to Medeo, renowned as one of the world’s highest skating rinks. From Medeo, take the cable car up to Shymbulak Ski Resort, reaching an altitude of around 3,200 metres. Enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery before returning to Almaty in the evening. Overnight in Almaty.
Almaty, Kok Tobe Mountain, Medeu, Shymbulak
Overnight: Almaty (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, depart Almaty and travel east towards one of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular natural attractions, Charyn Canyon. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, Charyn stretches for more than 150 kilometres and is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. Explore the famous Valley of Castles, where wind and water have carved the sandstone into impressive towers, cliffs, and fortress-like formations. Take a scenic walk down into the canyon, approximately 40 minutes, until reaching the Charyn River. Surrounded by striking red and orange rock walls, the area offers excellent opportunities for photography and quiet appreciation of the landscape. Enjoy lunch at a cosy café near the canyon before continuing to the Kolsay Lakes, a tranquil mountain destination nestled in the northern Tien Shan. Arrive in the late afternoon and settle into a welcoming guesthouse. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, admire the peaceful alpine surroundings, and enjoy a homemade dinner before relaxing for the evening. Overnight at a guesthouse near Kolsay Lakes.
Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes
- Almaty → Charyn Canyon
- Charyn Canyon → Kolsai Lakes
Overnight: Kolsai Lakes (Guesthouse)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
By road, approximately 250 km. After breakfast, check out and continue to the extraordinary Kaindy Lake, famous for its mysterious submerged spruce forest. The lake was created following a powerful earthquake in 1911, when a landslide formed a natural dam and flooded the surrounding forest. Today, the weathered tree trunks rising dramatically from the turquoise waters create an unforgettable and almost otherworldly scene. Walk down from the hillside to the lake to enjoy the views, or, as an optional experience arranged locally, make the journey on horseback. On the return journey, stop at a local village home for a hearty homemade lunch. Continue towards the Kegen border, where you will complete the necessary crossing formalities before entering Kyrgyzstan. From the border, continue by road to Karakol, a charming town located at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains. Overnight in Karakol.
Lake Kaindy, Karakol, Kolsai Lakes
- Kolsai Lakes → Lake Kaindy
- Lake Kaindy → Karakol (250 km)
Overnight: Karakol (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, discover the cultural and historical highlights of Karakol. Begin with a visit to the colourful Dungan Mosque, a remarkable wooden structure built without the use of nails. Continue to the Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Cathedral, another beautiful example of the town’s distinctive architectural heritage. The morning concludes with a visit to the museum dedicated to Nikolay Przhevalsky, the renowned Russian explorer whose expeditions contributed greatly to the mapping and study of Central Asia. Later, head into the mountains to explore the spectacular Jety-Oguz Gorge, meaning “Seven Bulls.” The gorge is famous for its dramatic red sandstone formations rising above dense green spruce forests. Admire the legendary rock formations known as the Seven Bulls and the Broken Heart, while enjoying the striking contrast between the red cliffs and surrounding mountain scenery. Return to Karakol and check into the hotel for a relaxing evening. Overnight in Karakol.
Jeti Oguz, Karakol
- Karakol → Jeti Oguz
- Jeti Oguz → Karakol
Overnight: Karakol (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
By road, approximately 250 km. After breakfast, continue along the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Visit Skazka Canyon, or the “Fairytale Canyon,” where centuries of wind and water erosion have transformed colourful red and yellow clay into dramatic towers, ridges, and castle-like formations. Some formations are even said to resemble sections of the Great Wall of China. Continue to Bokonbaevo village, where you will have the opportunity to meet local eagle hunters and witness a traditional falconry demonstration. This ancient Kyrgyz tradition has been passed down through generations and remains an important part of the region’s cultural heritage. Enjoy lunch during the journey before continuing towards Kochkor, a welcoming village renowned for its traditional felt handicrafts. Arrive in Kochkor in the evening, followed by dinner and a relaxing overnight stay. Overnight in Kochkor.
Bokonbaevo, Kochkor, Skazka Canyon
- Karakol → Skazka Canyon
- Skazka Canyon → Bokonbaevo
- Bokonbaevo → Kochkor (250 km)
Overnight: Kochkor (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
By road, approximately 200 km. Begin the day by discovering one of Kyrgyzstan’s most distinctive traditional crafts with a felt-making master class in Kochkor. Local artisans will introduce you to the traditional techniques used to create colourful shyrdaks, the famous Kyrgyz felt carpets. Learn about the craftsmanship, patterns, and symbolism behind these intricate designs, with the opportunity to experience the process yourself. After the workshop, depart for Bishkek, arriving in the afternoon. Overnight in Bishkek.
Bishkek, Kochkor
- Kochkor → Bishkek (200 km)
Overnight: Bishkek (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
Evening flight. After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Bishkek. Begin with the Monument to Manas, dedicated to the legendary hero of Kyrgyz epic tradition. Continue to Ala-Too Square, the city’s main central square, where you can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard. Visit the State Historical Museum to discover more about Kyrgyzstan’s rich and complex history, followed by stops at monuments dedicated to important historical figures, including Kurmanjan-Datka and Lenin. Take a relaxing walk through leafy Oak Park, known for its sculptures, green spaces, and Fine Arts Gallery. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, check in, and relax. Overnight in Tashkent.
Bishkek, Tashkent
- Bishkek → Tashkent
Overnight: Tashkent (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
Evening train. Today, explore Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital, where historic neighbourhoods and modern city life come together. Begin at Khast-Imam Square, the spiritual heart of the city, surrounded by historic madrasahs, mosques, and mausoleums. Continue to the colourful Chorsu Bazaar, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of local trade while browsing stalls filled with spices, fresh produce, dried fruits, textiles, and handicrafts. After lunch, visit Independence Square and Amir Temur Square, two of the city’s most prominent public spaces. A highlight of the day is a ride through the Tashkent Metro, famous for its elaborately decorated stations, each with its own distinctive artistic character. In the evening, board a comfortable train to Samarkand, the legendary jewel of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest. Overnight in Samarkand.
Samarkand, Tashkent
- Tashkent → Samarkand
Overnight: Samarkand (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, dedicate the day to discovering the magnificent city of Samarkand, one of the most celebrated destinations of the ancient Silk Road. Begin at the spectacular Registan Square, surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs: Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Qori. Their richly decorated façades and intricate tilework make Registan one of the most impressive architectural ensembles in Central Asia. Continue to the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane and members of his dynasty. Admire its elegant turquoise dome and richly decorated interior. After lunch, visit the monumental Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once among the largest mosques in the Islamic world. Continue to the atmospheric Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a remarkable complex of blue-tiled mausoleums arranged along a historic medieval passage. End the day at the Ulugbek Observatory, where the celebrated astronomer Ulugbek studied and charted the stars centuries ago. Return to the hotel for the evening. Overnight in Samarkand.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Mausoleum, Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, Registan, Shah i Zinda, Ulugbek Observatory
Overnight: Samarkand (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
By road, approximately 280 km. After breakfast, depart for Bukhara, one of the most atmospheric and historically significant cities of the Silk Road. The journey crosses the vast Kyzylkum plains, landscapes once traversed by caravans travelling between the great oasis cities of Central Asia. Upon arrival in Bukhara, begin exploring the historic old town, where ancient domes, mosques, madrasahs, and narrow streets preserve the atmosphere of a bygone era. Visit the magnificent Po-i-Kalyan Complex, dominated by its famous minaret, which once served as a landmark for travellers approaching the city. Continue to the Miri-Arab Madrasa, Magoki-Attori Mosque, and Ulugbek Madrasa, each reflecting Bukhara’s long tradition of religious scholarship and architecture. End the day at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a peaceful gathering place centred around a historic pool and shaded by mature mulberry trees. Check into the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight in Bukhara.
Bukhara, Poi Kalyan, Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble
- Samarkand → Bukhara (280 km)
Overnight: Bukhara (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, continue your exploration of historic Bukhara. Begin with the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, one of the finest surviving examples of early Islamic architecture, followed by the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, associated with the ancient legend of the Prophet Job. Explore the lively local bazaar before visiting the elegant Bolo-Khauz Mosque and the imposing Ark Citadel, the historic heart of Bukhara’s rulers. Within the citadel area, discover the old Zindan prison, offering a glimpse into the more dramatic chapters of the city’s past. In the afternoon, venture beyond the city centre to the magnificent Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the former summer residence of the last emir of Bukhara. Continue to the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Central Asia. As evening approaches, enjoy a special cultural and culinary experience in a traditional Uzbek home. Take part in a plov master class, learning from local hosts how to prepare Uzbekistan’s most famous dish. Afterwards, sit down together to enjoy a homemade dinner and experience the warmth of Uzbek hospitality. Overnight in Bukhara.
Bakhauddin Naqshband Mausoleum, Bukhara, Sitori-i Mokhi Khosa palace
Overnight: Bukhara (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Afternoon train. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed final morning in Bukhara. Take some time to wander through the atmospheric old town and soak up the city’s unique combination of historic architecture, traditional bazaars, and everyday local life. After check-out, enjoy a leisurely guided walk through the old streets and capture your final impressions of this remarkable Silk Road city. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station for a comfortable high-speed train journey to Tashkent. Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel for check-in and an evening at leisure. Overnight in Tashkent.
Bukhara, Tashkent
- Bukhara → Tashkent
Overnight: Tashkent (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before check-out by 12:00. At the appropriate time, transfer to the international airport for your onward flight. Your journey through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient Silk Road cities, vibrant local traditions, and warm Central Asian hospitality.
Meals: Breakfast
Total Price: USD 2,730 per person (shared basis). Single accommodation supplement: USD 395. Including economy-class flight ticket from Urgench to Tashkent. Day 12 | Bukhara - Khiva By road, approximately 460 km. After breakfast, leave Bukhara and embark on a scenic journey towards Khiva. The route takes us across the vast Kyzylkum Desert and alongside the Amudarya River, following landscapes that have connected the great Silk Road cities for centuries. Enjoy lunch en route before continuing to Khiva, one of Central Asia’s best-preserved medieval cities. Upon arrival, step into the atmospheric old town, where ancient walls, turquoise domes, minarets, and narrow lanes create the feeling of an open-air museum. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, browse local bazaars, discover traditional artisan workshops, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere of this remarkable Silk Road city. Overnight in Khiva. Day 13 | Khiva - Urgench - Tashkent By road, approximately 30 km. Evening flight. After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Ichan-Kala, the magnificent walled heart of Khiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the historic old town and discover some of its most remarkable architectural treasures, including the Pakhlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, Kunya-Ark Fortress, Islam Hajji Minaret, Tash Khauli Palace, Juma Mosque, and Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah. After lunch, continue to the Avesta Museum, dedicated to the ancient Zoroastrian traditions and the history surrounding the Avesta, one of the world’s oldest religious texts. Later, transfer to Urgench Airport for your evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and relax after the journey. Overnight in Tashkent. Day 14 | Tashkent - Departure After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the international airport for your onward flight. Depending on your flight schedule, breakfast will be served at the hotel or a packed breakfast/lunch box will be provided for the journey. Your unforgettable Central Asian adventure comes to an end, taking with you lasting memories of the mountains and landscapes of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the legendary Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan.
Bukhara, Khiva, Tashkent
- Bukhara → Khiva (460 km)
- Khiva → Tashkent
Overnight: Khiva (Hotel)
Meals: Breakfast
Download the itinerary
Tour Price
Group Tour Price
Single room supplement: $370
Optional extras
Pre-tour accommodation (1 night): double/twin room $130, single room $110
Post-tour accommodation (1 night): double/twin room $95, single room $75
Group Tour Price
Single room supplement: $395
Optional extras
Pre-tour accommodation (1 night): double/twin room $130, single room $110
Post-tour accommodation (1 night): double/twin room $95, single room $75
What's included
Included
- Accommodation at the hotels listed below, or at similar properties of the same category, in double/twin rooms with breakfast. Early check-in on Day 1 in Almaty is included; check-in at other hotels is at 14:00, check-out at 12:00.
- Accommodation at the guest house in Kolsay (twin accommodation).
- Meals - daily breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners as per the program.
- Entrance fees to the monuments and museums mentioned in the itinerary.
- Falconry demonstration and felt-making master class in Kyrgyzstan.
- Services of English-speaking local guides for sightseeing.
- Comfortable air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour, including all airport-hotel-airport transfers.
- Railway transfer from Tashkent to Samarkand and from Bukhara to Tashkent (economy class). In the 14-day Khiva version: Tashkent to Samarkand only.
- Flight ticket Bishkek - Tashkent (economy class).
- Flight ticket Urgench - Tashkent (economy class) - 14-day Khiva version only.
- Note: tickets for high-speed trains are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Not included
- International flight tickets.
- Pre-tour accommodation: USD 110 per night (single room) / USD 130 per night (double room).
- Post-tour accommodation: USD 75 per night (single room) / USD 95 per night (double room).
- Meals not mentioned above.
- Medical expenses and travel insurance.
- Porterage at hotels, railway stations, and airports.
- Tips for guides and drivers.
Nargiza is the office manager of Central Asia Guide and mostly responsible for multi country "Stan" tours.
Where you'll stay
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Night 1
Almaty
Grand Sapphire Hotel or similar
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Night 2
Kolsai Lakes
Alban Guesthouse or Taushelek Guesthouse or similar
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Nights 3–4
Karakol
Green Yard Hotel or similar
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Night 5
Kochkor
Nomad Lodge Hotel or Bagysh Hotel or similar
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Night 6
Bishkek
Bishkek Boutique Hotel or similar
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Night 7
Tashkent
Human Hotel or similar
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Nights 8–9
Samarkand
Arba Hotel or similar
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Nights 10–11
Bukhara
Rangrez Hotel or similar
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Night 12
Tashkent
Human Hotel or similar
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Optional extension
Khiva
Khiva Residence Hotel or similar
Uzbekistan travel information
Practical essentials for each country on this tour. Open a topic to read more.
Visa policy
Find your country from the list and check possible visa requirements for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan before booking.
The official currency is the tenge (KZT), and Kazakhstan has the most advanced banking system in the region.
ATMs and exchange
ATMs are widespread in the major cities, in banks, hotels and shopping centres, but most dispense only tenge. Every city has exchange offices for US dollars, euros, roubles, pounds, Chinese yuan and Kyrgyz som, and changing dollars or euros into tenge is easy at banks and exchange offices.
Paying by card
International cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and large supermarkets. Smaller shops usually take cash only and often have little change, so carry smaller notes.
The security situation is stable, but it can change. A few precautions go a long way.
Documents
Always carry original identification such as your passport, as police patrols may ask for it. When approached by a police officer, driver or official, ask to see their identification.
Crime and scams
- Petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag theft and car break-ins is common. Keep valuables out of sight and be vigilant, especially at night.
- Never leave food or drinks unattended or with strangers.
- Be careful of online scams.
- Stay away from demonstrations and political gatherings, and leave the area if there is unrest nearby.
Getting around
- Avoid walking alone and arrange transport in advance. Do not use unofficial taxis.
- On trains, keep your passport and travel documents safe and lock the compartment, especially on night trains.
- Roads are well maintained in and around the major cities, but rural roads may be in poor condition.
Laws and customs
- Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is banned near schools, playgrounds and medical facilities, in public places such as museums, public transport, airports, stations and underpasses, and in cars carrying children.
- Possessing or using illegal drugs can lead to a long prison sentence.
- Photography is restricted near military sites, border areas, airports and some official buildings. Avoid sharing images that could be seen as disrespectful to religion, culture or national symbols.
- Same-sex relationships are not illegal, but tolerance varies, especially outside the major cities.
Kazakhstan's visa rules depend on your passport. Check whether you need a visa for your visit.
Passport
If you enter visa-free, your passport only needs to be valid for the length of your stay. With a visa, it must be valid for six months beyond the end of your stay.
Visas and registration
For a tourist visa from an embassy or an electronic visa, you first need a letter of invitation (LOI). You may need to register after arriving in the country.
The best times to visit Kazakhstan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), avoiding the hot summers and snowy winters.
Summer and winter
Kazakhstan has a harsh continental climate, at its most extreme in the central steppe and around the capital, Astana. Temperatures can rise above 40°C in June to August and drop to −20°C in December to February.
Before you travel, make sure the places you are going can provide any medical help you might need, and that your travel insurance covers treatment and unexpected medical evacuation.
Medical care
Medical staff often speak little English.
Medicines
Non-prescription medicines are easy to buy. For prescription medicines you need a prescription from a local doctor, or a foreign prescription translated into Kazakh or Russian.
The official currency is the Kyrgyz som (KGS). Bishkek has plenty of ATMs, but outside the larger towns and the northern shore of Issyk-Kul cash is how almost everything is paid.
ATMs and cards
Some ATMs in Bishkek dispense US dollars as well as som. Beyond the capital, ATMs are found in the few largest towns but mostly not in smaller ones, except on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul. Mastercard works in all ATMs, but Visa is still the more widely accepted card. Demirbank's red ATMs have lately been the best option for foreign cards, with moderate fees.
Exchanging money
Exchange offices in the major cities change US dollars, euros and roubles into som. Notes must be clean, fresh and without any signs of wear. Exchange offices prefer larger notes from 50 USD and 50 EUR, and sometimes give a better rate for them.
Paying by card
Cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, large supermarkets and some museums in Bishkek and Osh, and occasionally even in taxis. Elsewhere, apart from the northern shore of Issyk-Kul, paying by card is not practical.
Kyrgyzstan is generally safe for travellers and tourism is growing fast, but the usual precautions matter.
Documents
Always carry your passport or a notarised copy. Without proper identification you can be detained by the police.
In towns
- Robberies, some of them violent, and thefts happen especially in crowded places such as the bazaars. Take care after dark.
- Sexual harassment has been reported on public transport. Avoid walking or travelling alone, especially at night.
- Book taxis in advance from established services.
- Stay away from crowds and demonstrations.
- Watch where you step: some streets have large holes and pavements are often uneven.
Laws and customs
- Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religious practices.
- Possessing or using narcotics is strictly prohibited.
- Do not photograph anything related to the armed forces or security services.
- Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely discussed or publicly recognised.
Border areas
Smuggling makes the southern border zones with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan unstable and best avoided.
Kyrgyzstan is visa-free for travellers from many countries. Others can apply for an electronic visa or through an embassy.
Visas
For a tourist visa, most passport holders need an invitation letter from a tourism company. Kyrgyzstan has had an electronic visa system since 1 September 2017.
Border regions
Visiting border regions requires a special permit.
The best times to visit Kyrgyzstan's lower areas are May–June and September. In the high mountains, July and August are best.
Lower areas: May–June and September
In late spring and early autumn the valleys, Issyk-Kul's shores and the towns are green or golden, days are pleasant rather than hot and there are fewer visitors.
High mountains: July and August
This is when the high pastures, yurt camps and mountain passes are open, and trekking and horse-riding routes that are under snow the rest of the year can be reached. Days in the valleys can reach about 30°C, and nights at altitude can still be close to freezing. Summer is also the time of festivals celebrating Kyrgyz traditions.
Winter
Winters in the highlands are long and close the high passes, but it is still a captivating season. Hiking, horse riding and skiing are all possible, and yurt stays are available too.
Healthcare in Kyrgyzstan is basic and medical facilities are scarce, so comprehensive medical and travel insurance is essential.
Medicines
If you rely on regular medication, bring enough for the whole trip: it can be hard or expensive to find locally.
Insurance
Arrange comprehensive medical and travel insurance before you arrive. A serious accident or illness may mean emergency air evacuation to a neighbouring country.
Food and water
Treat tap water and other local water as contaminated and boil it before drinking; bottled water is the safest choice throughout your stay. Be careful with unpasteurised dairy and other animal products.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations against polio and tuberculosis are recommended before entering the country, and others may also be advisable. Ask your doctor or travel clinic.
The local currency is the Uzbek sum. Uzbekistan is still mostly a cash economy, but money is easy to exchange and ATMs are common in the larger cities.
Exchanging money
Banks exchange US dollars, euros, British pounds and Japanese yen. There are exchange offices in major cities such as Bukhara and Khiva and at Tashkent airport; elsewhere you need a bank, which often gives a better rate anyway. Your notes must be in pristine condition. Sum is hard to exchange outside Uzbekistan, but you can change it back to US dollars at a local bank.
Cards and ATMs
Cards are accepted in upscale hotels and restaurants in Tashkent and the main tourist cities, with Visa more widely recognised than Mastercard and a standard 3% commission. ATMs dispense sum and are easy to find in the larger cities; many also offer US dollars.
Uzbekistan is generally a safe destination, with little religious extremism and few crimes against foreigners.
Documents
Always carry your passport: it is a legal requirement, and police carry out routine checks.
Getting around
- Use licensed taxis. Local taxi apps are the easiest way to get a ride at local prices, and Yandex works very well in Tashkent and Samarkand. If you take a taxi on the street or at the airport, agree the price first.
- Many roads outside Tashkent, especially in the Tian Shan and Fan mountains, are in poor condition. Driving standards are generally low, and rural roads are often unlit, so night driving is riskier.
- On night trains, keep valuables safe, do not leave belongings unattended and lock the compartment door from the inside.
- Watch your belongings as you would anywhere, and avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.
Laws and customs
- Possessing narcotics is strictly illegal.
- Same-sex relationships are illegal and still socially condemned. Avoid public displays of affection.
- Drones are in practice banned. Permits can be applied for but are very rarely granted.
Photography
Be discreet near government buildings such as the Palace of Forums in Tashkent, and sometimes at local markets that see few tourists. Restrictions have eased, but check before photographing near airports, border checkpoints, military sites, bridges and police stations.
Earthquakes
Uzbekistan is prone to earthquakes, mostly tremors, though stronger ones occasionally occur.
Entering Uzbekistan is straightforward when your documents are in order. Citizens of many countries can visit visa-free, and for many others a visa is easy to get without an invitation.
Registration
Registration rules are stricter than elsewhere in Central Asia: by law you must be registered within 3 days of arrival. Hotels usually do this for you, but register yourself if you stay longer than 3 days in, for example, a rented apartment. Border officers check the registrations when you leave and may ask for the paper slips, so keep them until you exit the country.
Customs
Exporting handcrafted items older than 50 years is prohibited. At land borders, customs officers may check your phone and photos for explicit or confidential material, though this has become very rare.
The best times to visit Uzbekistan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), between the summer heat and the winter cold.
Summer
At the height of summer the land dries out, especially in the countryside, and temperatures rise well above 30°C, often up to 40°C.
Winter
From November to March it can get cold, sometimes below zero, but the skies are mostly clear and bright. Snow is occasional and usually melts within a day or two.
Medical services in Uzbekistan have improved in recent years but are still limited, so good travel insurance that includes evacuation is essential.
Food and water
To avoid traveller's diarrhoea, drink only bottled, filtered or boiled water, and do not use tap water for brushing your teeth or for ice. Choose meat and fish that are thoroughly cooked and served hot.
Medical care
Uzbekistan has a state healthcare system and a small private sector. Larger clinics serve the cities and regional hospitals the countryside. Hospitals usually ask for payment in cash up front, even if you are insured, and serious cases may need evacuation home. Contact your insurer straight away if you need urgent care, and check before you leave what your insurance covers in Uzbekistan.
Medicines
Pharmacies are private, and the range of medicines can be limited. Prescriptions generally require a doctor's consultation. If you travel with medication, check the rules with the embassy, a consulate or Uzbekistan's Ministry of Health.
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