16-Day Uzbekistan Hiking Tour: Authentic Experiences & Silk Road Gems

Embark on a 16-day journey through Uzbekistan, combining scenic hiking trails, cultural exploration, and authentic travel experiences. This tour is perfect for adventurers seeking a mix of nature, history, and local traditions.

Start in Tashkent, where you’ll discover landmarks like Independence Square, Chorsu Bazaar, and the Khast Imam Complex. Then head to the Western Tian Shan Mountains for breathtaking hikes with panoramic views of Charvak Lake and the Chirchik Valley—making it one of the best hiking destinations near Tashkent.

Fly to Khiva to explore Ichon-Qala, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before crossing the Kyzylkum Desert to Bukhara. Here, you’ll uncover historic madrassas, mosques, and vibrant bazaars, all while experiencing the city’s timeless charm.

The Nuratau Mountains are the centerpiece of this adventure, offering a chance to hike through valleys, explore ancient ruins, and climb to the summit of Hayat Bashi Peak. Stay in family-run homestays, immersing yourself in local culture and enjoying the renowned Uzbek hospitality. Activities like learning to prepare Plov—a traditional Uzbek dish—add to the authenticity of your journey.

Unwind at Sayyod Yurt Camp, set in the serene Nuratau Mountains, where you can explore scenic mountain trails, relax by the pool, and enjoy evenings under a star-filled sky. Conclude your adventure in Samarkand, by visiting architectural marvels like Registan Square, Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, and Shah-i-Zinda necropolis.

Throughout the tour, stay in locally owned guesthouses and traditional homestays, supporting local communities and enjoying an authentic Uzbek travel experience.

This Uzbekistan hiking trip perfectly blends adventure, culture, and nature. Whether exploring hidden trails, visiting historic cities, or connecting with local traditions, this journey promises memories to last a lifetime.

If this hiking adventure does not fit your travel schedule, please explore our 11-Day Hiking Tour or 12-Day or 14-Day Trekking tours.

Day 1 – Tashkent
Arrive at Tashkent International Airport in the afternoon, where our driver will meet you and transfer you to your accommodation. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may go out for dinner to experience authentic Uzbek cuisine or relax in your hotel. This marks the beginning of your journey into Uzbekistan’s rich history and cultural traditions.

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

Day 2 – Tashkent
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. Continuing on, 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 – Tashkent – Beldersay – Charvak Lake
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to the Western Tian Shan Mountains and Beldersay Ski Resort. Upon arrival, meet your mountain guide and begin today’s circular hike near the resort. Start by heading towards “Sunny Meadow,” a great spot for panoramic mountain views and photos. From there, descend to the Marble River, where you’ll encounter a small waterfall and canyon. After a picnic lunch in the valley, continue ascending through juniper trees to Urta Kumbel Pass (1,850 m). Enjoy stunning views of Chirchik Valley from the pass before descending to Beldersay Chairlift Station. Our driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel near Charvak Lake, a 30-minute drive away. Relax in the afternoon and evening, with dinner at the hotel.

Travel time & distance: approx. 90 km/2 h
Hike: approx. 8.8 km/3-4 h, (+/- 440)
Overnight: Avenue Park Hotel  or similar
(B/Lunchbox/D)

Day 4 – Charvak Lake – Small Chimgan Peak – Tashkent
After breakfast at the hotel, drive for about 20 minutes to reach the starting point of today’s hike to Small Chimgan Peak (2,097 m) in Kozlinnoe Gorge. The hike begins with an ascent towards Pesochniy Pass. From the pass, the trail continues to the north, leading to the summit of Small Chimgan Peak. At the top, you will be treated to some of the most scenic views in the area, including panoramic vistas of Charvak Lake, Great Chimgan Peak, and the surrounding mountains of neighboring countries. After taking in the breathtaking views, descend along the ridge to the picturesque Gulkamsay River valley. A picnic lunch will be provided during the hike. At the end of the hike in Gulkamsay, meet your driver and transfer to Tashkent. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel.

Hike: approx.9 km/5-6 h, (+590, -920)
Travel time & distance: approx. 100 km/2 h
Overnight: Hotel Leader or similar
(B/Lunchbox/-)

Day 5 – Tashkent – Khiva
An early flight departs from Tashkent to Urgench. From there, a 30-minute drive will take you to the city of Khiva, where you will check in to your hotel before starting a city tour. Archaeological findings show that people have lived in present-day Khiva for over two millennia. Legend has it that the city was founded after the discovery of the Kheivak well in the Ichon-Qala (inner city) fortress. The name “Khiva” is believed to come from this ancient well. Located on the Volga branch of the Silk Road, Khiva was once one of the three major trading centers in the region. In the 19th century, it became the capital of the Khiva Khanate, known for its famous slave market on the Silk Road. Today, Khiva remains one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the region.

The exploration begins at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ichon-Qala. Entering through the gates of the walled Ichon-Qala fortress, you will be surrounded by medieval blue-tiled mosques, minarets, and madrasas. Wander through twisting alleyways, visit the market, and enjoy panoramic views from the top of the Kuhna-Ark citadel. The sightseeing tour includes visits to the Mohammed Amin Khan madrasa, Kalta Minor minaret, Kuhna-Ark citadel, Juma Mosque, Tosh-Hovli palace, Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum (Khiva’s patron saint), Mohammed Rakhim Khan madrasa, and the Islom-Hoja minaret. After a full day of sightseeing, enjoy the afternoon free to explore at your leisure.

Flight journey: approx. 1 h 40 min
Overnight: Meros B&B or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 6 – Khiva – Bukhara
Today, embark on a 6-hour journey to Bukhara, traveling through the vast Kyzyl-Kum Desert. Along the way, pass nomadic camps, shepherds’ huts, and camel herds, offering a glimpse of the traditional desert lifestyle. The route follows the scenic Amu Darya River, with planned stops for rest and to enjoy the surrounding desert landscape.

Upon arrival in Bukhara, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace. Wander through the bustling trading domes, filled with local crafts, spices, and souvenirs, or relax with a cup of tea by the Lyabi-Hauz pool, surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. This peaceful spot is perfect for unwinding and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic city.

Travel time & distance: approx. 480 km/6 h
Overnight: Guesthouse Bukhara Zaringiz or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 7 – Bukhara
With over a hundred unique monuments, Bukhara is known as the “Bastion of Islam” and is considered Central Asia’s holiest city. Spend two days here, with the first day dedicated to sightseeing and the second featuring a half-day tour followed by a free afternoon.

Start your exploration with a visit to Lyabi-Hauz, a peaceful pool surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Continue to the Maghoki-Attar Mosque and Nadir Divanbegi Madrasa, both showcasing stunning architecture. Then, visit the Kalon Ensemble, home to the 47-meter “Tower of Death” minaret and the operational Mir-i-Arab Madrasa, a working Islamic school. Explore the Ark Fortress, an ancient citadel that once housed the rulers of Bukhara, and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. Finish your sightseeing with the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, an important pilgrimage site. In the evening, enjoy free time to explore Bukhara at your leisure.

Overnight: Guesthouse Bukhara Zaringiz or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 8 – Around Bukhara
Start the day with a visit to Sitorai Mohi Hosa, the summer palace of the last emir, Emir Alim Khan. The palace showcases a unique blend of Russian and local architectural designs, with opulent halls adorned with intricate paintings and carpets, reflecting the cultural fusion of the era. Next, head to the village of Qasri Orifon, stopping en route to explore the Chor-Bakr Necropolis, a significant historical site. Continue to the Bakhautdin Naqshband Complex, one of Central Asia’s most important Sufi pilgrimage sites. The complex features several mosques, a minaret, and the mausoleum of Bakhautdin Naqshband, the founder of the influential Naqshbandi order. After the half-day tour, return to Bukhara for a free afternoon. Take the opportunity to explore artisan shops, wander through the narrow, winding streets, or visit a traditional puppet show (minimum 10 people) held in a historical caravanserai. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing experience at a medieval Hammam (steam bath) to unwind after the day’s activities.

Overnight: Guesthouse Bukhara Zaringiz or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 9 – Bukhara – Sentob village
Leave Bukhara for the Nuratau Mountains, a scenic 4.5-hour drive. Arrive by lunchtime and be welcomed by the host, who will show you the homestay facilities to help settle in. Many local homes have large fruit tree gardens, with tapchans (traditional seating areas) under walnut trees, perfect for summer relaxation. After settling in, enjoy a home-cooked lunch with the host family. After lunch, take a walk around the village, visiting the mosque, and the ruins of an ancient fortress, and admiring the traditional architectural style of local houses. Sentob is one of the few villages where nearly all the houses are built traditionally using local rocks. As you explore the village, observe locals engaged in their everyday activities, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life. Friendly villagers are often eager to engage in conversation. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to interact with the host family, either helping with or observing their daily tasks, including participating in or watching the preparation of dinner.

Travel time & distance: approx. 277 km/4.5 h
Overnight: Rahima’s homestay or similar
(B/L/D)

Day 10 – Sentob village
Begin the day with breakfast at the homestay before starting a hike through Sentob Valley towards Fazilman Plateau via Kadvan Valley. Along the way, explore ancient fortress ruins, and a watermill, and enjoy the views of the valley. The valley offers an opportunity to see diverse birdlife, flora, and fauna. The trail will take us to Lake Fazilman, a 10-hour, 22 km return journey. During the summer months, many villagers relocate to their huts near the lake to grow vegetables on the fertile mountain plateau. As you approach the lake, meet farmers transporting fodder and firewood by donkey, carrying goods from the mountains to the village. From there, continue to the plateau and head towards Lake Fazilman (2.8 km, 1 hour). Enjoy a picnic and a restful break at the lake before returning to Sentob via Saridasht Ridge. After a fulfilling day of hiking, enjoy dinner with the host family.

Hike: approx. 22 km /10 h, (+/- 950 m)
Overnight: Rahima’s homestay or similar
(B/L/D)

Day 11 – Sentob – Majerum – Uhum village
Enjoy breakfast at the homestay before starting your hike from Sentob to the neighboring village of Majerum, a scenic 11 km hike. Majerum is situated at the buffer zone of the Nuratau Nature Reserve, offering spectacular views throughout the hike. Upon arrival in Majerum, enjoy lunch at the home of local farmer Mr. Koldosh, whose large garden boasts apricot, mulberry, and walnut trees. Mr. Koldosh also produces and sells organic fruits, including dried apricots, walnuts, and mulberries. After lunch, transfer to Uhum Village. Settle into your local homestay and enjoy an afternoon walking tour of the village. During the 2-hour walk, observe local women baking bread in a tandir oven and carrying out daily chores. Many women still spin yarn, weave carpets, and create kurpacha mattresses. As you stroll through the village, you’ll have the opportunity to meet friendly locals, who often invite visitors to step into their yards and share their activities. In the evening, participate in or observe the preparation of the traditional dish Plov, made from homegrown vegetables and mountain spices. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the homestay.

Hike: approx.11 km/4 h, (+ 630, -700)
Travel time & distance: approx. 20 km/40 m        
Overnight: Ulugbek’s homestay or similar
(B/L/D)

Day 12 – Uhum – Hayat Peak – Hayat village
After breakfast with the host family, start your whole day hike to Hayat Bashi Peak (2 169 m), the highest point in the Nuratau Mountain range. The trail begins from the homestay, ascending toward the Nuratau Nature Reserve. Along the way, see the ruins of ancient irrigation channels and visit a petroglyph site, offering insight into the area’s ancient history. Continue through a picturesque valley filled with walnut trees to reach the summit, a journey that takes approximately 3.5 hours. The hike offers a chance to spot endangered Severtzov’s wild sheep, with the Nuratau Mountains home to about 90% of their global population. From the summit, take in breathtaking views of the mountains and nearby villages. After a rest, descend through Hayatsay Valley to Hayat village. Upon arrival, your host will welcome you and show you the homestay facilities so you can get settled in. This homestay has six separate guestrooms, furnished with carpets, kupacha mattresses, and pillows. The owner of the homestay, Khushvakt Musaev, works as a warden in the Nature Reserve. This is another member of our Community Beased Tourism network, ensuring that your stay supports the local economy and benefits the community. Enjoy a homemade dinner.

Hike: approx. 18 km/ 7.5 h, (+1190, -1993m)
Overnight: Shodmon’s homestay or similar
(B/L/D)

Day 13 – Hayat village – Sayyod Yurt Camp
After breakfast, a driver will transfer you to Sayyod Yurt Camp, nestled in the Nuratau Mountains. Upon arrival, settle into one of the 11 traditionally decorated yurts, each equipped to accommodate 2 to 4 guests. The mountain yurt camp combines authentic charm with modern comforts, featuring an on-site restaurant, well-maintained ablution facilities with showers and toilets, and an outdoor pool for relaxation. Set out on an easy hike, enjoying panoramic views of the Nuratau Mountains. Later, visit Sayyod Village, where the rural landscape of farming, livestock keeping, and traditional agricultural practices comes to life. Interact with the locals, observe their daily routines, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the village community. As the sun sets, gather for a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties, prepared fresh at the camp. After the meal, enjoy a relaxing evening by the fireplace.

Travel time & distance: approx. 65 km/1.5h
Hike: approx. 6 km/3 h, (+327, -328 m)
Overnight: Sayyod Yurt Camp
(B/L/D)

Day 14 – Sayyod Yurt Camp – Samarkand
Depart from Sayyod Yurt Camp to Samarkand. One of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, Samarkand is a jewel of the ancient and modern Silk Road. Founded in the 5th century BC, it has been a center of artisans and traders, playing a key role at the crossroads of trade between China, Persia, and India. The city was conquered by Alexander the Great in 329 BC, devastated by Genghis Khan, and flourished as the capital of Amir Timur’s empire in the 14th century. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide at the guesthouse. After checking in, begin the sightseeing tour with a visit to the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, originally built by Timur for his grandson and later becoming the resting place for Timur, his sons, grandsons, and teachers. Continue to the Registan ensemble, home to the Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kari madrasas. These medieval academies, adorned with intricate blue tiles and majolica, are among Central Asia’s most captivating monuments. From the Registan, head north along Tashkent Street, lined with handicraft and souvenir stalls, toward the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. According to legend, this grand mosque with its massive cupola was commissioned by Bibi-Khanym, Timur’s wife, to surprise him while he was away at war. Nearby, explore the bustling Siyob Bazaar, where local merchants offer fresh produce and handicrafts, providing an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to engage with hospitable locals. The evening is free to explore the vibrant streets and evening ambiance of Samarkand.

Travel time & distance: approx. 175 km/3 h
Overnight:  Jahongir Guesthouse or similar
(B/-/-)

Day 15 – Samarkand – Tashkent
After an early breakfast, continue your Samarkand tour with visits to the Shahi-Zinda Necropolis, Afrosiab Museum, and Ulugbek’s Observatory. Begin at the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, located opposite Siyob Bazaar, where you’ll find a row of beautifully decorated mausoleums, adorned with blue tiles and majolica. This site, known as the “Town of the Dead,” is home to the shrine of Qusam ibn-Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Mohammed and the first to preach Islam in the region. Next, visit Ulugbek’s Observatory, with an en-route stop at the Afrosiab Museum. Ulugbek, Timur’s grandson, was renowned as an astronomer, and his extraordinary observatory allowed him to calculate the length of the year within one minute of modern calculations. If time permits, visit Konigil village to observe the traditional production of famous silk paper. In the late afternoon, take the train from Samarkand to Tashkent.

Train journey: approx. 2.5 h
Overnight: Hotel Leader or similar
 (B/-/-)

Day 16 – Tashkent
Check out from the hotel by noon and you will be transferred to the 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 cultural tour in the form below and we will get back to you with available departure dates.