14-Day Trekking in Uzbekistan: Camping, Local Life & Silk Road Cities

Embark on an unforgettable 14-day trekking tour in Uzbekistan, where breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture converge. This ultimate Uzbekistan trekking holiday offers a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion.

Start in Tashkent, discovering its Soviet-era architecture and vibrant bazaars. Journey to the Chimgan Mountains for incredible trekking in Uzbekistan, where you’ll hike scenic trails, camp under the stars, and explore juniper forests, ancient petroglyphs, and panoramic ridges. Venture to Samarkand, home to iconic landmarks like Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, and Siyob Bazaar, showcasing the grandeur of the Silk Road.

Relax at the luxurious Sayyod Yurt Camp, located near the Nuratau Mountains. Enjoy two guided hikes from the camp, exploring scenic trails, neighboring villages, and breathtaking plateaus, all while indulging in modern amenities and panoramic views.

Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Nuratau Mountains, hiking picturesque trails, staying in authentic homestays, and connecting with local life. For the adventurous, take on the challenge of hiking to Hayat Bashi Peak, the highest point in the Nuratau Mountains, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes and Kyzylkum Steppe.

Conclude your adventure with tours of Bukhara and Khiva, where you’ll explore UNESCO-listed sites, ancient fortresses, and intricately designed madrassas. This Uzbekistan hiking tour is the perfect choice for adventurers seeking an authentic trekking holiday in Uzbekistan.

If our 14-Day Trekking Tour in Uzbekistan doesn’t fit your schedule, consider our 12-Day Uzbekistan Trekking Tour for a shorter but equally immersive experience. Explore more options on our Trekking Tours page or contact us for personalized recommendations!

Day 1 – Arrival in Tashkent
Arrive at Tashkent International Airport in the afternoon, where our driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on the time of your arrival you may go out for dinner or relax in the hotel.

Overnight: Hotel Leader or similar.
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Day 2 – Tashkent City Tour
Today, spend the whole day exploring sights on a Tashkent city tour. Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan, which has existed for more than 2,000 years. The city was completely rebuilt after being flattened by the devastating earthquake of 1966. Our first stop will include visits to Independence Square, Amir Timur Square, and the History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan. Continue, and visit the Khast Imam Complex, which contains the oldest known copy of the Koran dating from 655 AD.

From Khast Imam visit the nearby Chorsu Bazaar – the largest and oldest market in Central Asia. Wandering through this huge bustling market is a great way to see local people going about their daily lives. You will also meet many friendly local vendors who will engage with you as you pass by. The 16th-century Kukaldosh Madrasa – Tashkent’s most renowned Islamic learning center and 15th-century Juma Mosque are also both located at a short walking distance from Chorsu Bazaar. Next, take a ride on the Tashkent Metro, famous for its beautifully designed stations. If time permits, visit the Museum of Applied Arts.

Overnight: Hotel Leader or similar.
(B/-/-)

Day 3 – Transfer from Tashkent to Beldersay Ski Resort, start trek to Beldersay Valley
In the morning, transfer to the start point of the trekking tour at Beldersay Ski Resort. The trek commences near Beldersay Ski Resort towards the plains called Sunny Meadow. Reach the meadow and observe the stunning mountain landscape that surrounds you – a perfect opportunity to capture photos of the panoramic mountain scenery.

From Sunny Meadow, you will continue along the trail that descends to the Marble River. Before ascending from Marble River valley to Urta Kumbel pass (1 850m), walk through the valley for stunning views of the waterfall and canyon. After a picnic lunch, continue heading up along a trail that is surrounded by numerous juniper trees, and arrive at Urta Kumbel pass. Observe the stunning views of Chirchik Valley and Chetkumbel Pass from Urta Kumbel. After a short rest, descend to Beldersay Valley to set up in today’s camping area (1 720m).

Travel distance & time: approx. 90km/2 hours
Hike: approx. 6km/4 hours, ( + 204m, – 280m)
Overnight: Tent
(B/Lunchbox/D)

Day 4 –Trek from Beldersay to Nurekata Valley
After breakfast, pack up camp and continue trekking up from Beldersay Valley to the south towards Chetkumbell Pass (1 800m) which separates Beldersay and Nurekata valleys. At the Chetkumbel pass, take a moment to bask in the awe-inspiring panoramic scenery offered by the massive Chimgan peak (3 309m). Carry on along the trail on the ridgeline to the east towards Kumbel Pass (2 550m). Before a major ascent on the way to the Kumbel pass, take a sharp left turn and a short walk on the left-hand takes you to the petroglyphs site (2 400m) from the late Stone Age period. This is the highest point of our three-day trekking tour in the mountains of Ugam Chatkal National Park. This spot opens up panoramic views of Chatkal Range and Chirchik Valley. From the petroglyph site, we start descending to the south to scenic Nurekata valley. We will be camping in an open space along the riverbed of Nurekata (1 400m).

Hike: approx. 12km/6 hours,  ( + 680m, -1000m)
Overnight: Tent
(B/Lunchbox/D)

Day 5 – Trek from Nurekata to Shuldak then transfer via Tashkent to Samarkand
Today’s journey takes you along the Nurekata River valley, surrounded by juniper, walnut, and fruit trees, until you reach the junction of the Aksakata and Nurekata rivers. Along the way, you may encounter herds of sheep and horses grazing in the mountain meadows, and, if lucky, spot birds of prey soaring above the valley. You’ll pass by the summer huts of nomadic shepherds, where you can try Kymiz (fermented mare’s milk), a traditional drink of the mountain communities. These huts are used by shepherd families who stay in the valley during the summer months. From the river junction, continue for about an hour along the Aksakata River valley, crossing a small pass before reaching the trek’s endpoint at Shuldak village (1,000m). In Shuldak village, a driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Tashkent (84 km/1,5 -2 hours). In the evening, take a train from Tashkent to Samarkand arriving at about 10 PM.

Travel distance & time: approx. 90km/2 hours
Train ride: approx. 2,5 hours
Hike: approx. 18km/8 hours, ( + 300m, – 400m)
Overnight: Jahongir Premium Hotel or similar
(B/Lunchbox/)

Day 6 – City tour of Samarkand
Begin your day in Samarkand, a city with over 2,500 years of history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a pivotal stop along the Silk Road, Samarkand is celebrated for its stunning architecture, heavily influenced by Tamerlane’s vision and his affinity for the color blue, evident in the city’s domes and mosaics. Start with a visit to the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the conqueror Timur (Tamerlane). Proceed to Registan Square, the heart of ancient Samarkand, surrounded by three majestic madrasas: Ulugbek Madrasa, built in the 15th century by the astronomer and ruler Ulugbek as a leading center of Islamic education; Sher-Dor Madrasa, notable for its facade featuring tiger mosaics symbolizing power and courage; and Tilla-Kari Madrasa, known for its stunning gold-covered interior, which served both as a madrasa and a mosque.

Next, visit Bibikhanum Mosque and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, a breathtaking complex of mausoleums adorned with intricate tilework and considered one of the most sacred sites in Samarkand. Enjoy lunch near Siyob Bazaar, a lively market where you can sample local delicacies and experience the bustling atmosphere of daily life. Conclude your day at Ulugbek’s Observatory, one of the earliest astronomical observatories in the Islamic world, showcasing the scientific advancements of the 15th century. The evening is free for you to explore Samarkand at your leisure. You might consider visiting a local chaikhana (teahouse) to enjoy traditional Uzbek cuisine or taking a stroll through the illuminated streets to soak in the city’s ambiance.

Overnight: Hotel Jahongir Premium or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 7 – Samarkand to Sayyod Yurt Camp
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the Sayyod Yurt Camp, nestled in the Nuratau Mountains. Reach Sayyod Yurt Camp by lunchtime, and settle into one of the 11 traditionally decorated yurts, each equipped to accommodate 2 to 4 guests. The camp combines authentic charm with modern comforts, featuring an on-site restaurant, a well-maintained ablution block with showers and toilets, and even an outdoor pool for relaxation. After having breakfast, set out on an easy 3-hour, 6 km hike in the afternoon, treating yourself to panoramic views of the Nuratau Mountains and Lake Aydarkul. Later, visit Sayyod village. Engage with locals, witness their daily activities, and feel the warmth of their hospitality. Upon your return to the yurt camp, depending on the temperature, you can refresh yourself in the outdoor swimming pool. As the sun sets, gather for a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties, prepared fresh at the camp. After the meal, spend a relaxing evening by the fireplace.

Travel distance & time: approx. 175 km/3,5 hours
Hike: approx. 6 km/3 hours, ( +327, -328 m)
Overnight: Sayyod Yurt Camp
(B/L/D)

Day 8 – Sayyod Yurt Camp
Start the day with an early breakfast before setting out on a guided hike to the mountain plateau (15 km/7 hours). The trail takes you through scenic valleys and up to the plateau, offering spectacular views of neighboring villages and surrounding landscapes. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before descending into picturesque terrain. Return to the yurt camp in the afternoon for some relaxation.

At the camp, you can participate in traditional hands-on cooking classes or enjoy recreational activities such as table tennis, archery, and stargazing with a small telescope. End the day with a delicious dinner and rest in preparation for the next day’s hike.

Hike: approx. 15 km/7 hours, ( +996,  -998 m)
Overnight: Sayyod Yurt Camp
(B/L/D)

Day 9 – Hike in Hayat village
In the morning, transfer from the yurt camp to Hayat village. Upon arrival, settle in Shodmon’s homestay. The homestay owner welcomes you and shows you the facilities. This homestay features six separate guestrooms, furnished with carpets, Kupacha mattresses, and pillows. The owner, Khushvakt Musaev, also works as a warden in the Nature Reserve.

At 10:30, start hiking with two options available:

• Option A: moderate 13 km (4-hour) hike to Uhum village through the Nuratau Nature Reserve. Along the way, witness daily village life, including women baking bread in tandir ovens and weaving carpets. Explore the ruins of ancient irrigation channels and visit a historical petroglyph site in Upper Uhum.
• Option B: challenging hike to Hayat Boshi Peak (2,169 m), the highest peak in the Nuratau Mountains. Enjoy panoramic views of the Kyzylkum Steppe, Lake Aydarkul, and neighboring villages, with a chance to spot the endangered Severtzov’s sheep.

Return to Shodmon’s homestay in the afternoon, relax, and enjoy a hearty dinner by the brook that runs through the garden.

Hike: approx. Option A: 13 km/ 4 hours, ( +388, -386 m), Option B: 17 km/ 7,5 hours,  ( +1,190, -1,190 m.)
Overnight: Shodmon’s homestay or similar
(B/Lunchbox/D)

Day 10 – Hayat to Bukhara
After breakfast with the family, prepare for your hike to your next homestay in Asraf village. You’ll be guided by your mountain escort while a car transports your luggage. Your hike sets off through Ukhum Valley to Asraf village (12 km-3,5 hours). When you reach the school, you’ll take a left turn and continue walking down through the valley (approx 1 km) to reach the old community Watermill. The old watermill is still in operation and uses a hydro pump that lifts water to a local house without electricity. The owner, Ural Kasimov, will proudly demonstrate to you the use of these old devices. Continue walking down Mushibirion Valley and turn right at the ruins of the old Mongol fortress “Qorgoni Honkeldi”. To get to Asraf village you still have to hike another 3,5 km to the east.

Arrive in Asraf village and have lunch in Aslon’s homestay. In the afternoon depart to Bukhara. Arrive in Bukhara in the late afternoon and settle in your hotel.  The evening is free for you to wander around and explore Bukhara on your own.

Travel distance & time: approx. 175 km/3,5 hours
Hike: approx. 12 km/3,5 hours, ( +322, -626 m)
Overnight: As Salam Boutique Hotel or similar
(B/L/-)

Day 11 – Full-day sightseeing Bukhara tour
Today’s full-day tour of Bukhara begins with a visit to Lyabi Hauz, a square centered around a historic pool, followed by the Maghoki-Attar Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Central Asia, and the Nadir Divan Begi Madrasa, a stunning example of Islamic architecture. With over a hundred unique monuments, Bukhara is often called the “Bastion of Islam” and the holiest city in Central Asia.

As you pass through the medieval trading domes, you’ll visit the Abdul Aziz Khan Madrasa and the Ulugbek Madrasa, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution. From there, continue to the Kalon Ensemble, home to the iconic Kalon Minaret, built by ruler Arslan Khan in 1127. Standing 47 meters tall, this structure is also known as the “Tower of Death,” as it was historically used to execute prisoners. Nearby, you’ll find the Kalon Mosque, and opposite it, the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa, a 16th-century institution that remains in operation today.

Heading further west, explore the ancient Ark Fortress, dating back to the 5th century AD. This was the center of Bukhara’s royal power and the site of many historical events. Inside, you’ll see the Juma Mosque, the Reception and Coronation Court, the Zindon (Bug Pit) Prison, and the emir’s official place of worship, the Bolo-Hauz Mosque. After leaving the Ark, walk through Registan Square and into Samani Park, where you’ll visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, a 10th-century masterpiece of early Islamic architecture, and the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, meaning “Job’s Spring,” known for its connection to the biblical prophet. The evening is yours to spend as you wish, giving you time to explore Bukhara’s vibrant streets and enjoy its unique nightlife.

Overnight: Hotel As-Salam Boutique, or similar.
(B/-/-)

Day 12- Bukhara to Khiva
After breakfast in Bukhara, start on a 7-hour drive to Khiva through the vast Kyzylkum Desert, with its rolling sands and occasional glimpses of wildlife. Along the way, we stop at a roadside café for lunch and a chance to stretch. Continuing the journey, we pass small villages and catch views of the Amu Darya River, adding a scenic highlight to the route. Arriving in Khiva by late afternoon, check into the hotel. The evening is free to relax and explore the illuminated old town.

Travel distance & time: approx. 447 km/7 hours
Overnight: Polvon Qori Boutique Hotel or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 13 – Khiva – Tashkent
Khiva, once a vital Silk Road trading hub and the capital of the Khiva Khanate, stands today as a remarkably preserved ancient city. After having breakfast in the hotel, begin exploring the UNESCO-listed Ichon-Qala, a walled fortress filled with medieval blue-tiled mosques, minarets, and madrasas, evoking a scene from Arabian Nights. Highlights include the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa, Kalta Minor Minaret, Kuhna-Ark Citadel, Juma Mosque, Tosh-Hovli Palace, Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, and Islom-Hoja Minaret. Enjoy panoramic views from Kuhna-Ark and wander the alleys or local markets. In the late afternoon, transfer to Urgench Airport for your evening flight to Tashkent. Arrive in Tashkent and settle in the hotel.

Overnight: Hotel Leader or similar.
(B/-/-)

Day 14 – Tashkent
Check out from the hotel by noon and transfer to Tashkent International Airport.

(B/-/-)

End of the trip

All our tours are available as private tours. To request private tour departure dates you can send us an enquiry here. Please fill in your details and select your preferred trekking tour in the form below and we will get back to you with available departure dates.