7D Highlights of Uzbekistan

Price from NZD3242 per person on Twin sharing basis

Tashkent – Urgench – Khiva – Bukhara – Samarkand

Trace the footsteps of Silk Road traders on a journey through Uzbekistan’s most storied cities. Begin in Tashkent, the lively capital where grand Soviet-era avenues meet ornate Islamic architecture and bustling bazaars. Fly west to Urgench and step into the walled, time-capsule city of Khiva, a beautifully preserved labyrinth of minarets, madrassas, and sand-coloured ramparts rising from the desert.

Continue to Bukhara, a sacred centre of learning for over a millennium, where ancient mosques and caravanserais cluster around tranquil plazas. The journey reaches its grand crescendo in Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road—home to the majestic Registan, shimmering blue domes, and monumental mausoleums that speak to the grandeur of Timur’s empire.

A journey of culture, craftsmanship, architecture, and living history—woven together across one of the world’s most legendary trade routes.

Itinerary

Day 1

Tashkent – Urgench – Khiva

Transfer to Tashkent Airport and a morning flight to Urgench. Upon arrival, transfer to Khiva and begin your tour of one of Uzbekistan’s oldest cities, Ichan-Qala. In 1969, Ichan-Qala was designated a historical and architectural conservation area. Its most remarkable sites include the Kunya-Ark Fortress, dating back to the 17th century and founded by Muhammad Arang Khan, the Kalta Minor Minaret, and the Tash Khouvli Palace.

Day 2

Khiva – Bukhara (B)

Early in the morning, we will transfer to Bukhara. With more than 140 architectural monuments, Bukhara is a “town museum” dating back to the Middle Ages. The road from Khiva to Bukhara passes through the famous Kizilkum Desert. Along the way, we will enjoy views of the Amu Darya River, the deepest river in Central Asia.

Day 3

Bukhara (B)

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Bukhara. Visit the Citadel Ark, which served as a palace for several dynasties of the Bukhara Empire. Then, see the Samanids Mausoleum, followed by Chashma Ayub. Stroll along the shopping domes and visit one of Bukhara’s most famous madrasahs, the Nodir Divan Begi Madrasah. The tour concludes with a visit to the Poi Kalon Complex.

Day 4

Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand (B)

Today, we will drive to Samarkand. On the way, we will stop at Gijduvan Village to visit a famous private pottery workshop. The Gijduvan ceramics school has deep roots, with skills passed down from father to son through generations. Today, Gijduvan is home to the sixth generation of potters from the Narzullayev family, who have brought international recognition to Gijduvan school ceramics. Afterwards, we will continue our drive to Samarkand.

Day 5

Samarkand (B)

Samarkand is situated in the valley of the Zerafshan River. It is the second-largest city in Uzbekistan and is as old as Babylon and Rome. Today, you will visit its most outstanding sights, including Registan Square, Shakhi-Zindeh, the Guri Emir Mausoleum, and Bibi Khanum Mosque. The Bibi Khanum Mosque was built in honor of Tamerlane’s favorite wife, following his successful campaign in India.

Day 6

Samarkand – Tashkent (B)

In the morning, we will drive to Tashkent and visit Independence Square. take a walk along the local Broadway, a pedestrian street connecting Independence Square and Amir Timur Square. enjoy a ride on the famous Tashkent Metro, Later, we will explore the old part of the city, including Chorsu Bazaar, Kukeldash Madrasah, and the Hast Imam Complex.

Day 7

Tashkent (B)

Transfer to Tashkent Airport for your onward flight

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing using air-conditioned private car, local English speaking guides, entrance fees at monuments.

Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2026. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.