Almaty and the Ancient Cities of Uzbekistan

Explore two fascinating countries in one unforgettable journey, from Almaty’s mountain panoramas to Uzbekistan’s enchanting cities and Silk Road heritage.

  • Starting Point: Airport Pickup (Almaty)
  • Tour Duration: 11 Days
  • Available year-round
  • Private Tour
Highly qualified staff
We invest over 300 hours each year in training our staff and guides to ensure top-notch service.
Charity
Our company contributes up to 1% of your service cost to support charitable causes and create a positive impact.
Guarantee
We guarantee the quality of our services and will refund the cost of any service that fails to meet the agreed standards.
Experience
With over 26,000 satisfied guests from 67 countries and 10,000+ tours completed, our experience speaks for itself.

Cost Estimate and Online Booking

prices and reservations
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Included Features
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Purchase Instructions
Why Choose Us?
Cancellation Policy

11 Days

Distance

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Almaty and the Ancient Cities of Uzbekistan
Starting point: Airport Pickup (Almaty)

Available year-round
Tour Duration: 11 Days
Full payment must be made no later than 30 days before the tour start date.

 

If a site is inaccessible, a suitable alternative will be arranged.

Rates may vary during peak seasons, exhibitions, and blackout dates.

Minor itinerary adjustments may be made by mutual agreement with the client.

What's Included in the Price?

  • Airport pickup and drop-off; private transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary
  • Accommodation in selected hotels based on twin-sharing occupancy
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Days 2-10, breakfast and lunch on Day 11)
  • Services of a professional English-speaking guide
  • Environmental and entry fees
  • Flight from Khiva to Urgench 
  • High-speed train tickets 
  • A bottle of drinking water per person per day

Not Included:

  • Personal expenses of tour participants
  • Early check-in, unless specified in the itinerary
  • Late check-out, unless specified in the itinerary
  • International airfare
  • Visa services (if required)
  • Additional services not specified in the itinerary

Tour Pricing Options

The prices for this tour are based on the Standard tariff, which includes reliable tourist transport in good condition, the services of an experienced guide and driver, hotel stays, and meals.

In addition to the Standard tariff, we offer the following options:

  • Economy: We provide lower-class vehicles for transfers, and accommodations consist of more budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. This option is ideal for tourists looking to minimize costs.

Note: Be cautious of companies that misrepresent their Economy tariff as Standard. These companies may offer lower-priced tours with poor service quality, such as outdated vehicles and inexperienced guides. They might also operate illegally and neglect essential safety standards.

  • Comfort: This option features high-comfort vehicles in excellent condition, with the most experienced guides accompanying tourists. Tourists stay in high-class hotels.
  • VIP: Luxury transport is provided, and guests stay in upscale hotels. Premium services are offered throughout the entire trip.

If you wish to adjust your tariff, please inform your manager before booking the tour.

For more information about our rates and transport options, refer to this section.

Contact our manager to book this tour.

Why Choose Us?

Highly Qualified Staff
We invest over 300 hours each year in training our staff and guides to ensure top-notch service.

Charity
Our company contributes up to 1% of your service cost to support charitable causes and create a positive impact. 

Guarantee
We guarantee the quality of our services. If we do not meet your expectations, we will refund your money.

Experience
With over 26,000 satisfied guests from 67 countries and 10,000+ tours completed, our experience speaks for itself. 

Cancellation Policy:

  • If you cancel the tour less than 15 days* before its start, 50% of the total cost will be retained.
  • If you cancel less than 72 hours* before the tour or do not show up, 100% of the total cost will be retained.

*Please note that if a cancellation notice is received outside of our working hours (evening, night, or weekends) and our managers have not confirmed receipt of your cancellation or change request in writing, the company reserves the right to consider the request when business hours resume. Therefore, we encourage you to notify us of any changes or cancellations as early as possible.

During non-working hours, you can try to reach us through our duty phone, corporate email, or corporate messengers. Duty managers monitor these channels and can respond promptly. If you have the contact information for your guide, driver, or other responsible parties (often listed in your voucher), we recommend reaching out to them directly as well.

Tour Schedule

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11

Upon arrival at Almaty International Airport, your guide will meet you and accompany you on a transfer to the hotel.

The remainder of the day is free for personal activities and relaxation.

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Then, you will board a comfortable vehicle and begin your sightseeing tour of Almaty. 

  • After breakfast, we will travel to the Medeu Tract (1,690 m above sea level). The gorge is home to the famous high-altitude Medeu Skating Rink and the protective mountain dam. You will take a short guided walk to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
  • Then we will proceed to Shymbulak Ski Resort (2,260-3,200 m above sea level), one of the most popular mountain destinations near Almaty. A cable car will take you above the forested slopes and into the mountains, where you'll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and gorge. At the resort, you will have time to enjoy the mountain scenery, explore the area, and visit its restaurants and cafés. 
  • The tour will continue to Kok-Tobe Park, a popular recreational destination offering panoramic views of Almaty. The hill is home to a television tower, which is among the tallest in Central Asia when measured from sea level. You will have time to explore the park and enjoy the city panorama from the observation deck. You can also visit the apple-shaped fountain, where visitors traditionally toss coins for good luck, and browse the shop offering Kazakh national souvenirs.
  • Next, we will visit the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, one of Almaty's historic green spaces. The park is home to the magnificent Ascension Cathedral. During your visit, you will also see the Memorial of Glory dedicated to those who fought in World War II, and the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments.
  • We will then explore the Green Bazaar, Almaty's most well-known historic marketplace. There, you'll browse traditional souvenirs and discover an assortment of spices, dried fruits, and local products.
  • After completing the city tour, we will drop you off at your hotel.

Duration: Approximately 9 hours

09:30 AM – Hotel lobby pickup and transfer to Gunny Ethnic Village.

11:00-11:10 AM – Welcome ceremony. Guests are greeted by warriors dressed in authentic Saka-style armor. The host will then demonstrate the traditional Kazakh shashu welcome ritual.

11:10-11:30 AM – Interactive baursak masterclass. You’ll take part in a hands-on cooking session and discover how to make baursaks, traditional Kazakh fried dough treats.

11:30 AM-12:00 PM – Introduction to yurt architecture and nomadic crafts. Learn about the construction of the traditional Kazakh yurt and its spiritual significance. Watch demonstrations of traditional nomadic household activities, including wool processing, spindle spinning, hand-grinding flour, and the Kazakh besik cradle ceremony.

12:00-12:40 PM – Sarbaz nomad show and traditional horse games. Enjoy a lively performance featuring ancient equestrian skills, traditional games, and Kazakh dance.

  • Jigitovka: Acrobatic stunts performed on horseback.

  • Audaryspak: Traditional Kazakh horseback wrestling.

  • Kyz Kuu (Catch the Maiden): A spirited horseback chase rooted in Kazakh courtship traditions.

  • Kara Zhorga: A performance of the traditional Kazakh dance.

  • Horseback Riding: You’ll take a short horseback ride.

1:00-2:00 PM – Lunch. Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a selection of dishes.

2:00-2:30 PM – Interactive archery class. Try your hand at traditional Kazakh archery under the guidance of experienced instructors.

3:00 PM – Turgen waterfall. We’ll then continue to picturesque Turgen Gorge and visit Turgen Waterfall, located at an altitude of approximately 1,756 meters (5760 ft) above sea level. 

Dinner

Transfer to the hotel

Duration: Approximately 10 hours

Distance: ~115 km (~70 mi)

08:00 AM – After breakfast, we’ll depart from Almaty and drive to Lunar Canyon, located within Charyn National Park (140 km/87 mi). The canyon is known for its pale yellow clay formations and softly sculpted landscapes shaped by wind and erosion.

After exploring the canyon, we’ll continue to Saty Village (96 km/60 mi). Upon arrival, you’ll check into a traditional guesthouse, your home for the next two nights, and have a lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged spruce forest. You can enjoy a scenic walk around the lake before returning to Saty Village for dinner and an overnight stay.

Duration: ~10 hours
Distance: ~350 km (~217 mi)

08:00 AM – After breakfast, we’ll depart for Kolsay Lakes. Bottled water and packed lunches will be provided for the day.

Upon arrival at Lower Kolsay Lake, we’ll begin a scenic mountain trek to Middle Kolsay Lake (optional). The trail winds through dense pine forests and alpine meadows, following a crystal-clear mountain river.

Trek Details:

  • Distance: Approximately 7 km (4.3 mi) one way
  • Duration: 3-3.5 hours one way
  • Elevation gain: From 1,818 m (5,965 ft) to 2,250 m (7,382 ft) above sea level
  • Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for active travelers with a basic level of fitness

Upon reaching Middle Kolsay Lake, you’ll enjoy a scenic outdoor lunch surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the majestic Tian Shan peaks.

In the afternoon, we’ll hike back to Lower Kolsay Lake and transfer to Saty Village, where a home-cooked dinner and overnight stay await.

Note: Guests who prefer not to hike to Middle Kolsay Lake can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Lower Kolsay Lake, rent a rowboat, or relax with a coffee at one of the local lakeside cafés.

At 09:30 am, we will depart from Almaty and travel to Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural landmarks.

Upon arrival, you will enjoy panoramic views of the canyon from the scenic viewpoints before following a 2 km (1.2 mi) walking trail through the Valley of Castles. The trail leads between towering rock formations shaped by wind and water over millions of years and continues down to a lush oasis along the Charyn River.

After the walk, we will stop at a local café where you'll have an opportunity to sample traditional local dishes.

At approximately 7:00 pm, we will return to Almaty, where you will have dinner before being transferred to your hotel.

Duration: Approximately 10 hours
Distance: Approximately 300 km (186 mi)

In the morning, we'll take a flight from Almaty to Tashkent, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Upon arrival, we'll take you on a city tour of Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital. You'll visit Chorsu Bazaar, a traditional market known for its colorful stalls and local produce. Then you can explore Independence Square, one of the city’s main landmarks, and Amir Timur Square, dedicated to the famous Central Asian ruler. The city tour will also include the Hazrati Imam Complex, a significant religious and architectural site in the historic part of Tashkent.

We'll take a morning flight from Tashkent to Urgench. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Urgench, we'll continue by road to Khiva, a distance of about 35 km (22 mi) that takes 40-45 minutes.

After arriving in Khiva, we'll take you on a guided tour of Itchan Kala, the historic walled inner city of Khiva. The sightseeing tour includes Kalta Minor Minaret, distinguished by its colorful turquoise decoration, Tash Khauli Palace, with its ornate courtyards, and Juma Mosque, known for its impressive wooden columns. The sightseeing tour takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Today, we’ll travel to Bukhara by high-speed train. Upon arrival, you'll explore Bukhara’s historic center, known for its remarkable Islamic architecture and rich Silk Road heritage.

We'll visit the Lab-i Hauz Complex, a picturesque ensemble built around a historic pond, and the Ark Fortress, the former residence of Bukhara’s rulers. You'll also see the Poi Kalyan Ensemble and the Bolo-Hauz Ensemble. The tour will also include the Samanid Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture.

Today, we’ll travel from Bukhara to Samarkand by high-speed train. The journey covers approximately 270 km (168 mi) and takes around 1.5-2 hours.

Upon arrival, you'll see Samarkand’s most famous landmarks, including Registan, Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble, and Bibi Khanym Mosque. You’ll also explore Siab Bazaar, a traditional market where you can browse local produce, spices, sweets, and freshly baked Uzbek bread. The sightseeing tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours.

Today, we’ll take a high-speed train back to Tashkent. The journey covers approximately 300 km (186 mi) and takes around 2 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a short city tour before going to the airport for your departure. Dinner will be served on board.

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Day 1

Upon arrival at Almaty International Airport, your guide will meet you and accompany you on a transfer to the hotel.

The remainder of the day is free for personal activities and relaxation.

Day 2

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Then, you will board a comfortable vehicle and begin your sightseeing tour of Almaty. 

  • After breakfast, we will travel to the Medeu Tract (1,690 m above sea level). The gorge is home to the famous high-altitude Medeu Skating Rink and the protective mountain dam. You will take a short guided walk to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
  • Then we will proceed to Shymbulak Ski Resort (2,260-3,200 m above sea level), one of the most popular mountain destinations near Almaty. A cable car will take you above the forested slopes and into the mountains, where you'll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and gorge. At the resort, you will have time to enjoy the mountain scenery, explore the area, and visit its restaurants and cafés. 
  • The tour will continue to Kok-Tobe Park, a popular recreational destination offering panoramic views of Almaty. The hill is home to a television tower, which is among the tallest in Central Asia when measured from sea level. You will have time to explore the park and enjoy the city panorama from the observation deck. You can also visit the apple-shaped fountain, where visitors traditionally toss coins for good luck, and browse the shop offering Kazakh national souvenirs.
  • Next, we will visit the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, one of Almaty's historic green spaces. The park is home to the magnificent Ascension Cathedral. During your visit, you will also see the Memorial of Glory dedicated to those who fought in World War II, and the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments.
  • We will then explore the Green Bazaar, Almaty's most well-known historic marketplace. There, you'll browse traditional souvenirs and discover an assortment of spices, dried fruits, and local products.
  • After completing the city tour, we will drop you off at your hotel.

Duration: Approximately 9 hours

Day 3

09:30 AM – Hotel lobby pickup and transfer to Gunny Ethnic Village.

11:00-11:10 AM – Welcome ceremony. Guests are greeted by warriors dressed in authentic Saka-style armor. The host will then demonstrate the traditional Kazakh shashu welcome ritual.

11:10-11:30 AM – Interactive baursak masterclass. You’ll take part in a hands-on cooking session and discover how to make baursaks, traditional Kazakh fried dough treats.

11:30 AM-12:00 PM – Introduction to yurt architecture and nomadic crafts. Learn about the construction of the traditional Kazakh yurt and its spiritual significance. Watch demonstrations of traditional nomadic household activities, including wool processing, spindle spinning, hand-grinding flour, and the Kazakh besik cradle ceremony.

12:00-12:40 PM – Sarbaz nomad show and traditional horse games. Enjoy a lively performance featuring ancient equestrian skills, traditional games, and Kazakh dance.

  • Jigitovka: Acrobatic stunts performed on horseback.

  • Audaryspak: Traditional Kazakh horseback wrestling.

  • Kyz Kuu (Catch the Maiden): A spirited horseback chase rooted in Kazakh courtship traditions.

  • Kara Zhorga: A performance of the traditional Kazakh dance.

  • Horseback Riding: You’ll take a short horseback ride.

1:00-2:00 PM – Lunch. Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a selection of dishes.

2:00-2:30 PM – Interactive archery class. Try your hand at traditional Kazakh archery under the guidance of experienced instructors.

3:00 PM – Turgen waterfall. We’ll then continue to picturesque Turgen Gorge and visit Turgen Waterfall, located at an altitude of approximately 1,756 meters (5760 ft) above sea level. 

Dinner

Transfer to the hotel

Duration: Approximately 10 hours

Distance: ~115 km (~70 mi)

Day 4

08:00 AM – After breakfast, we’ll depart from Almaty and drive to Lunar Canyon, located within Charyn National Park (140 km/87 mi). The canyon is known for its pale yellow clay formations and softly sculpted landscapes shaped by wind and erosion.

After exploring the canyon, we’ll continue to Saty Village (96 km/60 mi). Upon arrival, you’ll check into a traditional guesthouse, your home for the next two nights, and have a lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged spruce forest. You can enjoy a scenic walk around the lake before returning to Saty Village for dinner and an overnight stay.

Duration: ~10 hours
Distance: ~350 km (~217 mi)
Day 5

08:00 AM – After breakfast, we’ll depart for Kolsay Lakes. Bottled water and packed lunches will be provided for the day.

Upon arrival at Lower Kolsay Lake, we’ll begin a scenic mountain trek to Middle Kolsay Lake (optional). The trail winds through dense pine forests and alpine meadows, following a crystal-clear mountain river.

Trek Details:

  • Distance: Approximately 7 km (4.3 mi) one way
  • Duration: 3-3.5 hours one way
  • Elevation gain: From 1,818 m (5,965 ft) to 2,250 m (7,382 ft) above sea level
  • Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for active travelers with a basic level of fitness

Upon reaching Middle Kolsay Lake, you’ll enjoy a scenic outdoor lunch surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the majestic Tian Shan peaks.

In the afternoon, we’ll hike back to Lower Kolsay Lake and transfer to Saty Village, where a home-cooked dinner and overnight stay await.

Note: Guests who prefer not to hike to Middle Kolsay Lake can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Lower Kolsay Lake, rent a rowboat, or relax with a coffee at one of the local lakeside cafés.

Day 6

At 09:30 am, we will depart from Almaty and travel to Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural landmarks.

Upon arrival, you will enjoy panoramic views of the canyon from the scenic viewpoints before following a 2 km (1.2 mi) walking trail through the Valley of Castles. The trail leads between towering rock formations shaped by wind and water over millions of years and continues down to a lush oasis along the Charyn River.

After the walk, we will stop at a local café where you'll have an opportunity to sample traditional local dishes.

At approximately 7:00 pm, we will return to Almaty, where you will have dinner before being transferred to your hotel.

Duration: Approximately 10 hours
Distance: Approximately 300 km (186 mi)

Day 7

In the morning, we'll take a flight from Almaty to Tashkent, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Upon arrival, we'll take you on a city tour of Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital. You'll visit Chorsu Bazaar, a traditional market known for its colorful stalls and local produce. Then you can explore Independence Square, one of the city’s main landmarks, and Amir Timur Square, dedicated to the famous Central Asian ruler. The city tour will also include the Hazrati Imam Complex, a significant religious and architectural site in the historic part of Tashkent.

Day 8

We'll take a morning flight from Tashkent to Urgench. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Urgench, we'll continue by road to Khiva, a distance of about 35 km (22 mi) that takes 40-45 minutes.

After arriving in Khiva, we'll take you on a guided tour of Itchan Kala, the historic walled inner city of Khiva. The sightseeing tour includes Kalta Minor Minaret, distinguished by its colorful turquoise decoration, Tash Khauli Palace, with its ornate courtyards, and Juma Mosque, known for its impressive wooden columns. The sightseeing tour takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Day 9

Today, we’ll travel to Bukhara by high-speed train. Upon arrival, you'll explore Bukhara’s historic center, known for its remarkable Islamic architecture and rich Silk Road heritage.

We'll visit the Lab-i Hauz Complex, a picturesque ensemble built around a historic pond, and the Ark Fortress, the former residence of Bukhara’s rulers. You'll also see the Poi Kalyan Ensemble and the Bolo-Hauz Ensemble. The tour will also include the Samanid Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture.

Day 10

Today, we’ll travel from Bukhara to Samarkand by high-speed train. The journey covers approximately 270 km (168 mi) and takes around 1.5-2 hours.

Upon arrival, you'll see Samarkand’s most famous landmarks, including Registan, Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble, and Bibi Khanym Mosque. You’ll also explore Siab Bazaar, a traditional market where you can browse local produce, spices, sweets, and freshly baked Uzbek bread. The sightseeing tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours.

Day 11

Today, we’ll take a high-speed train back to Tashkent. The journey covers approximately 300 km (186 mi) and takes around 2 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a short city tour before going to the airport for your departure. Dinner will be served on board.

Arrival in Almaty
Medeu Skating Rink
Shymbulak Ski Resort
Kok-Tobe Park and TV Tower
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
Green Bazaar
Gunny Ethnic Village
Turgen Gorge
Lake Kaindy
Lunar Canyon
Kolsay Lakes
Charyn Canyon
Chorsu Bazaar
Hazrati Imam Complex
Amir Timur Square
Itchan Kala
Lab-i Hauz Ensemble
Ark Fortress
Samanid Mausoleum
Registan
Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble
Bibi Khanym Mosque
Departure from Tashkent
Arrival in Almaty

Almaty is Kazakhstan’s largest city and a major cultural, business, and tourism center. It is the country’s former capital and remains one of its most important cities. Located at the foot of the Ile Alatau mountains, Almaty combines a lively urban atmosphere with easy access to spectacular mountain landscapes. In just 20 minutes by car from the city center, you can reach pine-covered mountain slopes. Almaty is an ideal starting point for exploring the cultural heritage and diverse landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan. 

Medeu Skating Rink

Perched at an elevation of 1690 meters (5545 ft) above sea level, the Medeu Skating Rink claims the title of the world's highest mountain skating rink, boasting the largest artificial ice field covering 10.5 thousand square meters. Embraced by majestic mountains and benefiting from the pristine mountain water used for ice, this rink has set the stage for more than 200 world records in speed skating. Widely recognized as the "factory of records," the Medeu Skating Rink is not limited to athletes; it extends a warm welcome to all skating enthusiasts. Adjacent to the rink is a mudflow protection dam, accessible via the "Health Ladder," a staircase comprising 842 steps.

Shymbulak Ski Resort

Nestled in the scenic gorge of the Ile Alatau Mountains, Shymbulak Ski Resort is just a 15-minute drive from the heart of Almaty. Established in 1954, it served as a training base for Soviet skiers from the mid-1950s onward, hosting championships of the USSR and Kazakhstan on its slopes. The resort comprises three levels, with the highest situated at an impressive altitude of 3200 meters above sea level.

Kok-Tobe Park and TV Tower

Kok-Tobe Hill stands at an elevation of 1130 meters (3707 ft) above sea level. The summit can be reached via a winding road or a cable car, starting from the Palace of the Republic. At the hilltop, stands the renowned 372-meter TV tower, a distinctive symbol of the city and its tallest structure. Additionally, the Kok-Tobe Park awaits, providing the opportunity to revel in a spectacular city panorama from the dedicated observation deck, toss a coin into the apple-shaped fountain, pose with the Beatles monument, and peruse a shop featuring national souvenirs.

Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen commemorates the heroic act of 28 soldiers during World War II, specifically the Battle of Moscow. These soldiers, part of the 316th Rifle Division and led by Major Ivan Panfilov, valiantly defended their position against an overwhelmingly superior enemy force. Despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned, they held their ground for 36 hours, fighting until they expended their last bullet and took their last breath.

Green Bazaar

Established in 1868, the Green Bazaar stands as one of Almaty's oldest markets. It continues to enjoy popularity, reminiscent of its late 19th-century status, and features a diverse selection of traditional Kazakhstani items and products. Notably, the market is renowned for offering the famous Almaty Aport apple. Travel tip: Most market purchases are made in cash using the local currency, the Kazakhstani tenge.

Gunny Ethnic Village

Gunny Ethnic Village is a vibrant ethnographic complex where tourists can experience the traditional lifestyle and customs of the Kazakh people. Here, visitors are immersed in the rich heritage of the Kazakh nomads, with demonstrations of equestrian shows, archery, traditional combat displays, and rituals marking life stages from birth to adulthood. The village features traditional Kazakh yurts and modern yurtages – yurt-inspired cottages with modern amenities. There is also a shooting range, stables, dining facilities, a horseback riding school, and various national-style structures and decor.

Turgen Gorge

Turgen Gorge is a picturesque mountain valley located about 70 km () east of Almaty, in the Ile-Alatau National Park. Surrounded by forested slopes, alpine meadows, and the rugged peaks of the Tien Shan, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The gorge is famous for its scenic waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy mountain rivers, fresh air, and beautiful views along the winding road through the gorge. Turgen Gorge is an excellent choice for a day trip from Almaty, especially in spring and summer, when the landscape is lush and green.

Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy was formed by a powerful earthquake more than a century ago. The seismic activity triggered a landslide, forming a natural dam that blocked a valley. The water submerged the surrounding trees, resulting in the picturesque underwater forest that graces the lake's depths today. Despite the passage of time, the lake has remarkably preserved its submerged forest. The cold water in Lake Kaindy slows down the decomposition process, preventing the decay of the trees. As a result, the submerged forest remains remarkably well-preserved.

Lunar Canyon

Lunar Canyon is located between the Charyn River and the Kuluktau Mountains, it is famous for its unusual rock formations shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. The resulting landscape resembles the surface of the Moon, giving the canyon its name.

The gorge is also known as the Valley of Yurts because some of its rock formations bear a striking resemblance to traditional Kazakh yurts.

Kolsay Lakes

The Kolsay Lakes form a series of mountain lakes, each positioned at varying altitudes. The Lower Kolsay Lake resides at an altitude of 1818 meters (5965 ft) and stands out for its easy accessibility by car, making it the most frequented lake. The Middle Kolsay Lake, the largest among the three, is nestled at 2250 meters (7382 ft). A natural dam of fir trees blocks its waters, and the shores boast the rare sight of blooming white edelweiss. At an elevation of 2850 meters (9350 ft), the Upper Kolsay Lake is the smallest and coldest of the trio. Remarkably pristine and seldom visited by tourists, it remains the cleanest and most untouched among the three lakes.

Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon bears a resemblance to the Grand Canyon in the USA, albeit on a smaller scale. The steep canyon slopes reach heights of 150-300 meters (500-1000 ft), and what truly stands out is the remarkable dissection of the terrain – a dense, chaotic network of numerous ravines. Particularly captivating is the Valley of Castles, where the wind and water have sculpted walls resembling castles and towers. This valley showcases nature's unique architectural prowess, crafting magnificent structures over millions of years. Walking amid these towers and columns, you can marvel at the wild imagination of nature for hours.

Chorsu Bazaar
Chorsu Bazaar is one of Tashkent’s oldest and most famous traditional markets. Located in the city’s historic center, the bazaar is recognizable by its large turquoise dome, beneath which vendors sell fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, nuts, traditional sweets, and local delicacies. Outside, visitors can explore rows of stalls offering freshly baked bread, handmade goods, and Uzbek street food.
Hazrati Imam Complex
Hazrati Imam Complex is one of Tashkent’s most important religious and historical landmarks. It brings together mosques, madrasas, and the Mausoleum of Kaffal Shashi. It is also home to the Muyi Muborak Madrasa, which houses one of the world’s oldest Quran manuscripts, known as the Uthman Quran. The complex is a remarkable example of Uzbekistan’s Islamic heritage, showcasing centuries-old architectural traditions and the craftsmanship of local artisans.
Amir Timur Square
Amir Timur Square features a monument to Amir Timur, the 14th-century ruler who founded the Timurid Empire. The square is surrounded by greenery, walking paths, and notable buildings, including the Uzbekistan Hotel and the Museum of the History of the Timurids. It is a popular meeting place and a great starting point for exploring the city.
Itchan Kala
Itchan Kala is the historic inner city of Khiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkably preserved old town features narrow streets, ancient madrasahs, mosques, minarets, and traditional courtyards. Walking through Itchan Kala feels like stepping back in time to the days when Khiva was an important stop along the Silk Road.
Lab-i Hauz Ensemble
Lab-i Hauz Ensemble is centered around a large pond (hauz) built in the early 17th century. The square is surrounded by historic madrasahs, a khanaka (a gathering place for members of the Sufi order), and traditional teahouses. Shaded by old trees, Lab-i Hauz has long been a popular gathering place for locals and travelers alike.
Ark Fortress

Ark Fortress has served as the residence of the city’s rulers for centuries. Behind its massive earthen walls, the fortress housed palaces, mosques, administrative buildings, and living quarters. Today, it functions as a museum where visitors can learn about Bukhara’s history and its role as an important center of trade and culture along the Silk Road.

Samanid Mausoleum
Samanid Mausoleum is one of the oldest surviving structures in Central Asia, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. It was built as a family tomb for the Samanid dynasty and now it's considered a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture in Central Asia. The mausoleum is particularly admired for its intricate brickwork and elegant design, which demonstrate the exceptional craftsmanship of its builders.
Registan
Registan is the historic heart of Samarkand and one of the most impressive architectural landmarks in Uzbekistan. It's a square surrounded by three madrasahs: Ulugh Beg Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, and Tilya-Kori Madrasah, built between the 15th and 17th centuries. Their richly decorated facades, mosaics, and turquoise domes showcase the finest traditions of Islamic architecture. Once a center of trade, public gatherings, and education, Registan remains a symbol of Samarkand's rich history and cultural heritage.
Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble
Shah-i-Zinda is a necropolis that houses several mausoleums decorated with intricate mosaics, glazed tiles, and vibrant blue patterns. The complex developed between the 11th and 15th centuries. It's associated with Qusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, who is believed to have brought Islam to the region. Its name translates as “The Living King,” reflecting the legend surrounding his tomb. A walk among these ornate mausoleums offers visitors a glimpse into Samarkand’s rich spiritual heritage and the artistic achievements of medieval Central Asia.
Bibi Khanym Mosque

Bibi Khanym Mosque was built in the late 14th and early 15th centuries by order of Amir Timur after his military campaign in India. At that time, it was among the largest mosques in the Islamic world. It was designed to reflect the power and grandeur of Timur’s empire. The monumental entrance portal, massive blue dome, and richly decorated walls showcase the finest traditions of Timurid architecture.

Unfortunately, the mosque suffered significant damage over the centuries and was eventually restored. Yet it remains an essential stop for visitors exploring Samarkand’s historic center.

Departure from Tashkent

Tashkent is the largest city in Central Asia with a population of more than 3 million. It’s a bustling, rapidly developing city that combines the traditions of Uzbek culture with the legacy of the Soviet era and the pace of modern urban life. Wide avenues, residential neighborhoods, green spaces, and contemporary developments shape the city’s appearance. Meanwhile, traditional customs and hospitality remain an important part of everyday life.

As Uzbekistan’s political, economic, and cultural center, Tashkent attracts students, entrepreneurs, and visitors from across the country and abroad. Its diverse food culture, lively social scene, and growing international connections make it a dynamic introduction to modern Uzbekistan.

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