Explore the Magnificent Empire of Tamerlan with a with a historian and PhD candidate: From Khiva to Samarkand
UZBEKISTAN
April 23 – 30, 2026
Uzbekistan
Tour to Uzbekistan
April 23 – 30, 2026
Uzbekistan
Tour to Uzbekistan
Empire of Tamerlan: From Khiva to Samarkand tour to Uzbekistan
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Stroll at dawn through the cobbled medieval streets of Khiva, meeting a mullah near the clay mosque nestled within fortress walls, or immerse yourself in the harmony of a mountainous Langar valley while sipping tea and discussing the mysteries of life with local elders. Unveil the secrets of Bukhara's artisans, feel the energy of nightfall at Gur-Emir, and embrace the grandeur of Tamerlan's Empire at Registan Square in Samarkand.
Our expedition will be led by a talented guide, revealing all the enchantments of the East, treating you to the world's finest pilaf, teaching you its preparation, and guiding you to capture the most exceptional snapshots of Uzbekistan.
The expedition is led by a passionate and dedicated historian — a PhD student at Bukhara State University.
Our expedition will be led by a talented guide, revealing all the enchantments of the East, treating you to the world's finest pilaf, teaching you its preparation, and guiding you to capture the most exceptional snapshots of Uzbekistan.
The expedition is led by a passionate and dedicated historian — a PhD student at Bukhara State University.
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Our ethnic expedition actoss Kyrgyzstan will open for you the country of mountains, that you fall in love with.
of Central Asia.
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SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: April 23 - 30, 2026
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Group size: 6 – 12 participants
Cost per person (double accommodation):
Early booking discount: 10% off (if booking before January 23, 2026)
All-inclusive package (including full board), excluding:
Estimated flight cost Istanbul – Urgench and Samarkand – Istnbul: 600 - 700 USD (usually purchased independently. We provide ticket purchase assistance).
Single Room Supplement: 300 USD (single room accommodation throughout the entire itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO UZBEKISTAN
Day 1: April 23, 2026 (Thursday). URGENCH AIRPORT – KHIVA (35 km)
Arrive at Urgench Airport on an international flight either during the night or early in the morning. You will be warmly welcomed by our driver and guide at the airport. Transfer to Khiva, approximately 45 minutes away. Check-in at Arkanchi Hotel (or similar) so you can rest after your flight. Overnight at the hotel.
*Recommended flights:
– direct flight from Istanbul to Urgench with Turkish Airlines, departing from stanbul on April 23 at 01:20 AM and arriving in Urgench on April 24 at 7:10 AM.
– Or any other flight arriving in Urgench no later than 9:00 AM on April 23.
Meals included: no
Accommodation included: Arkanchi Hotel (or similar)
Day 2. April 24, 2026 (Friday). KHIVA
For lovers of photography and unique historical experiences, we invite you to wake up at dawn and capture the city without the usual crowds of tourists. The morning in Khiva is pure magic!
After breakfast, you will embark on a journey through the 2,500-year-old city of Khiva, a true medieval gem. Its cobbled streets, clay mosques, intricate patterns, and majestic fortress walls will undoubtedly captivate even the most seasoned traveler.
The entire old city of Khiva, known as Ichon-Qala, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Our exploration will begin with a visit to the iconic Juma Mosque, where we'll encounter the five main minarets of Khiva and, of course, the renowned Kalta-Minor Minaret, the Mohammed Amin-khan Madrasa, the palaces of Mohammed Rahim-khan and the Tash-Hauli Khans. Climbing up the Ak-Sheikh-bobo tower, we'll have the entire Ichon-Qala at your fingertips, a breathtaking sight to behold.
In the evening, we will be welcomed into the home of the guide's family, where we'll have the opportunity to participate in preparing Khivan pilaf, and discover the secrets that make Khivan pilaf distinct from any other. Accompanying dinner will be the enchanting Lazgi dance performance by a local dance ensemble, an artform proudly inscribed in UNESCO's list of intangible heritage.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Arkanchi Hotel (or similar)
Day 3. April 25, 2026 (Saturday). KHIVA - BUKHARA (430 km)
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Transfer on a comfortable high-speed train from Khiva to Bukhara (train schedule is subject to change). We will pass through the beautiful Kyzylkum Desert, known as the "Red Sands," situated between the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers.
Upon arriving in Bukhara and settling into our accommodation at Boutique DEVON Hotel (or similar), take some time to relax before a leisurely stroll through the old Jewish quarter and its surroundings. We'll also stop by a traditional coffee house, where coffee is brewed on hot sand, offering a unique experience.
For dinner, we have a special treat - an invitation from the renowned artist, Davlat Toshev, who is an heir to the ancient traditions of Bukharan miniature painting and calligraphy.
Additionally, for those interested (optional, with an additional fee), we can arrange a visit to ancient baths that have stood for over 400 years, where you'll be pampered with a steam bath, a massage to unwind after the long journey, and an herbal scrub.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Boutique Devon Hotel (or similar)
Day 4. April 26, 2026 (Sunday). BUKHARA
After a delicious breakfast, we'll continue our immersion into the ancient culture of Bukhara. In the company of our knowledgeable guide, we'll explore the Samanid Mausoleum from the 9th century, the Ark Citadel, and the architectural ensembles of Poi-Kalyan and Lyab-i Hauz. Not to mention, the Chor-Bakr Necropolis and countless other fascinating sites.
On the charming old streets, we'll encounter skillful artisans practicing traditional crafts and learn about the ancient techniques used to create true works of art.
After dinner, we recommend taking an evening walk through Bukhara to feel its soul. This is where Omar Khayyam lived and created, where Avicenna worked and innovated. Every corner here holds a piece of history.
Overnight at Boutique DEVON hotel (or a similar one) in the center of Bukhara.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Boutique Devon Hotel (or similar)
Day 5. April 27, 2026 (Monday). BUKHARA – GIJDUVAN – SAMARKAND (280 km)
New day - new adventures! Today, we will explore the well-preserved Jewish house in Bukhara, whose present owner is renowned for her exquisite Suzani embroidery. You will also visit the Chor-Minor complex, the center of the Bahaudin Nakshbandi Sufi order, and the countryside residence of Emir Mokhi Hosa.
After bidding farewell to Bukhara, we will continue our journey to Gijduvan, where our long-time friends, the talented Nurzullaev family of master potters, eagerly await our visit.
Following a delightful lunch, our destination will be Samarkand.
In the evening, after checking into the elegant Milan hotel (or equivalent), a delightful dinner awaits us at a traditional Uzbek home.
After dinner, we will have an extraordinary nocturnal individual tour to the mausoleum of the 14th-century great ruler, Tamerlan the Great, at Gur-Emir. This place emanates a captivating mystical energy, especially felt at night when there are no crowds of tourists. This exclusive nighttime tour is one-of-a-kind.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Milan Hotel (or similar)
Day 6. April 28, 2026 (Tuesday). SAMARKAND - KASHKADARYA REGION - SAMARKAND (approximately 300 km)
A full-day journey to the Kashkadarya region that is rich in its natural beauty and authentic charm. Today, we'll get a glimpse of untouched Uzbekistan!
An early departure from the hotel, around 6-7 am.
We will visit the village of Kyzyl Dakhan and the ancient settlement of Langar, home to the legendary Ark of Noah, inhabited 5000 years ago. Langar is renowned for its long-living residents, and we will have a chance to be enchanted by the locals, engage in conversations, and capture beautiful photographs.
Marvel at the stunning Langar Canyon, the Katta Langar Mosque, and the Sufi shrines. Witness the traditional salt mining process, and if you're lucky, meet those who still extract salt using ancient methods.
Lunch will be enjoyed by the Uradar River.
On the way back, we will visit a mountain ethnic market and the Plateau of Demons, an ancient mystical site associated with witch gatherings and sorcery. Overnight at the Milan Hotel in Samarkand.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Milan Hotel (or similar)
Day 7. April 29, 2026 (Wednesday). SAMARKAND
In the morning, accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, we will visit a secret location to witness the preparation of the country's most delicious "samsa" pastry. And, of course, we'll have the pleasure of tasting it for breakfast.
Next, we will embark on a captivating walk through Old Samarkand. We'll witness the ensemble of 11 mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda, the burial site of Prophet Daniel, Ulugbek's observatory, the magnificent Bibi-Khanum Mosque, and, undoubtedly, the iconic Registan Square, the hallmark of Samarkand.
Only interrupted for lunch, where we'll savor the city's best "plov" and learn its culinary secrets.
Then we will visit a silk carpet workshop, where time seems to stand still as dozens of young women weave carpets just as their ancestors did a thousand years ago. Exploring the vibrant Siab Bazaar, where we can indulge in various Uzbek delicacies.
A farewell dinner will be hosted at the city's finest restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll to the illuminated Registan Square and enjoy a mesmerizing light show with a glass of champagne.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Milan Hotel (or similar)
Day 8. April 30, 2026 (Thursday). SAMARKAND - DEPARTURE
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your departure from Samarkand.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: No
*Recommended flights:
– Direct flight from Samarkand to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines on May 1 at 5.40 or 9:00 AM, arriving in Istanbul at 8.55 or 12:15 PM the same day.
– Any other flight departing from Samarkand on May 1 at any time.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Group size: 6 – 12 participants
Cost per person (double accommodation):
- 1 890 USD for 11 – 12 participants,
- 1 990 USD for 9 – 10 participants,
- 2 150 USD for 6 – 8 participant.
Early booking discount: 10% off (if booking before January 23, 2026)
All-inclusive package (including full board), excluding:
- Flights to Urgench and back from Samarkand,
- Medical insurance,
- Uzbekistan visa (not required for Russian citizens)
Estimated flight cost Istanbul – Urgench and Samarkand – Istnbul: 600 - 700 USD (usually purchased independently. We provide ticket purchase assistance).
Single Room Supplement: 300 USD (single room accommodation throughout the entire itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO UZBEKISTAN
Day 1: April 23, 2026 (Thursday). URGENCH AIRPORT – KHIVA (35 km)
Arrive at Urgench Airport on an international flight either during the night or early in the morning. You will be warmly welcomed by our driver and guide at the airport. Transfer to Khiva, approximately 45 minutes away. Check-in at Arkanchi Hotel (or similar) so you can rest after your flight. Overnight at the hotel.
*Recommended flights:
– direct flight from Istanbul to Urgench with Turkish Airlines, departing from stanbul on April 23 at 01:20 AM and arriving in Urgench on April 24 at 7:10 AM.
– Or any other flight arriving in Urgench no later than 9:00 AM on April 23.
Meals included: no
Accommodation included: Arkanchi Hotel (or similar)
Day 2. April 24, 2026 (Friday). KHIVA
For lovers of photography and unique historical experiences, we invite you to wake up at dawn and capture the city without the usual crowds of tourists. The morning in Khiva is pure magic!
After breakfast, you will embark on a journey through the 2,500-year-old city of Khiva, a true medieval gem. Its cobbled streets, clay mosques, intricate patterns, and majestic fortress walls will undoubtedly captivate even the most seasoned traveler.
The entire old city of Khiva, known as Ichon-Qala, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Our exploration will begin with a visit to the iconic Juma Mosque, where we'll encounter the five main minarets of Khiva and, of course, the renowned Kalta-Minor Minaret, the Mohammed Amin-khan Madrasa, the palaces of Mohammed Rahim-khan and the Tash-Hauli Khans. Climbing up the Ak-Sheikh-bobo tower, we'll have the entire Ichon-Qala at your fingertips, a breathtaking sight to behold.
In the evening, we will be welcomed into the home of the guide's family, where we'll have the opportunity to participate in preparing Khivan pilaf, and discover the secrets that make Khivan pilaf distinct from any other. Accompanying dinner will be the enchanting Lazgi dance performance by a local dance ensemble, an artform proudly inscribed in UNESCO's list of intangible heritage.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Arkanchi Hotel (or similar)
Day 3. April 25, 2026 (Saturday). KHIVA - BUKHARA (430 km)
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Transfer on a comfortable high-speed train from Khiva to Bukhara (train schedule is subject to change). We will pass through the beautiful Kyzylkum Desert, known as the "Red Sands," situated between the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers.
Upon arriving in Bukhara and settling into our accommodation at Boutique DEVON Hotel (or similar), take some time to relax before a leisurely stroll through the old Jewish quarter and its surroundings. We'll also stop by a traditional coffee house, where coffee is brewed on hot sand, offering a unique experience.
For dinner, we have a special treat - an invitation from the renowned artist, Davlat Toshev, who is an heir to the ancient traditions of Bukharan miniature painting and calligraphy.
Additionally, for those interested (optional, with an additional fee), we can arrange a visit to ancient baths that have stood for over 400 years, where you'll be pampered with a steam bath, a massage to unwind after the long journey, and an herbal scrub.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Boutique Devon Hotel (or similar)
Day 4. April 26, 2026 (Sunday). BUKHARA
After a delicious breakfast, we'll continue our immersion into the ancient culture of Bukhara. In the company of our knowledgeable guide, we'll explore the Samanid Mausoleum from the 9th century, the Ark Citadel, and the architectural ensembles of Poi-Kalyan and Lyab-i Hauz. Not to mention, the Chor-Bakr Necropolis and countless other fascinating sites.
On the charming old streets, we'll encounter skillful artisans practicing traditional crafts and learn about the ancient techniques used to create true works of art.
After dinner, we recommend taking an evening walk through Bukhara to feel its soul. This is where Omar Khayyam lived and created, where Avicenna worked and innovated. Every corner here holds a piece of history.
Overnight at Boutique DEVON hotel (or a similar one) in the center of Bukhara.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Boutique Devon Hotel (or similar)
Day 5. April 27, 2026 (Monday). BUKHARA – GIJDUVAN – SAMARKAND (280 km)
New day - new adventures! Today, we will explore the well-preserved Jewish house in Bukhara, whose present owner is renowned for her exquisite Suzani embroidery. You will also visit the Chor-Minor complex, the center of the Bahaudin Nakshbandi Sufi order, and the countryside residence of Emir Mokhi Hosa.
After bidding farewell to Bukhara, we will continue our journey to Gijduvan, where our long-time friends, the talented Nurzullaev family of master potters, eagerly await our visit.
Following a delightful lunch, our destination will be Samarkand.
In the evening, after checking into the elegant Milan hotel (or equivalent), a delightful dinner awaits us at a traditional Uzbek home.
After dinner, we will have an extraordinary nocturnal individual tour to the mausoleum of the 14th-century great ruler, Tamerlan the Great, at Gur-Emir. This place emanates a captivating mystical energy, especially felt at night when there are no crowds of tourists. This exclusive nighttime tour is one-of-a-kind.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Milan Hotel (or similar)
Day 6. April 28, 2026 (Tuesday). SAMARKAND - KASHKADARYA REGION - SAMARKAND (approximately 300 km)
A full-day journey to the Kashkadarya region that is rich in its natural beauty and authentic charm. Today, we'll get a glimpse of untouched Uzbekistan!
An early departure from the hotel, around 6-7 am.
We will visit the village of Kyzyl Dakhan and the ancient settlement of Langar, home to the legendary Ark of Noah, inhabited 5000 years ago. Langar is renowned for its long-living residents, and we will have a chance to be enchanted by the locals, engage in conversations, and capture beautiful photographs.
Marvel at the stunning Langar Canyon, the Katta Langar Mosque, and the Sufi shrines. Witness the traditional salt mining process, and if you're lucky, meet those who still extract salt using ancient methods.
Lunch will be enjoyed by the Uradar River.
On the way back, we will visit a mountain ethnic market and the Plateau of Demons, an ancient mystical site associated with witch gatherings and sorcery. Overnight at the Milan Hotel in Samarkand.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Milan Hotel (or similar)
Day 7. April 29, 2026 (Wednesday). SAMARKAND
In the morning, accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, we will visit a secret location to witness the preparation of the country's most delicious "samsa" pastry. And, of course, we'll have the pleasure of tasting it for breakfast.
Next, we will embark on a captivating walk through Old Samarkand. We'll witness the ensemble of 11 mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda, the burial site of Prophet Daniel, Ulugbek's observatory, the magnificent Bibi-Khanum Mosque, and, undoubtedly, the iconic Registan Square, the hallmark of Samarkand.
Only interrupted for lunch, where we'll savor the city's best "plov" and learn its culinary secrets.
Then we will visit a silk carpet workshop, where time seems to stand still as dozens of young women weave carpets just as their ancestors did a thousand years ago. Exploring the vibrant Siab Bazaar, where we can indulge in various Uzbek delicacies.
A farewell dinner will be hosted at the city's finest restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll to the illuminated Registan Square and enjoy a mesmerizing light show with a glass of champagne.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Milan Hotel (or similar)
Day 8. April 30, 2026 (Thursday). SAMARKAND - DEPARTURE
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your departure from Samarkand.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: No
*Recommended flights:
– Direct flight from Samarkand to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines on May 1 at 5.40 or 9:00 AM, arriving in Istanbul at 8.55 or 12:15 PM the same day.
– Any other flight departing from Samarkand on May 1 at any time.
Cost includes:
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
To take with:
- Accommodation in hotels 3-4* in double occupancy, with good breakfast, good service and centrally located
- Three meals a day for all days of the trip (alcohol is not included) in the best places, with the most delicious dishes of Uzbek cuisine
- Drinking water on the route unlimitedly
- Transfers to/from airports
- Transportation along the whole route: Toyota Hiace minibus for up to 8 people, or 35-seater bus like Toyota Coaster, with air conditioning and experienced drivers,
- Transfer on a comfortable high-speed train from Khiva to Bukhara
- Entrance fees to all attractions along the route
- All permits and permits, fees to local communities
- Full day trip to Kashkadarya region and services of mountain guides
- Master class on pilaf, visit to the house of folk ceramists with master class on pottery, visit to the house of folk ceramists with master class on pottery art, visit to the house of a famous artist
- Lazgi dance
- Photo session in national costumes
- Individual excursion to Gur Emir with best professional certified guides in all cities
- Experienced English and Russian speaking team leader throughout the route
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- International flights to Urgench and back from Samarkand
- Medical insurance
- Uzbekistan visa (not required for Russian citizens)
- Alcohol
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Optional program items
- Single accommodation
To take with:
- two sets of clothes (pants, long sleeve shirt, t-shirt, underwear, socks, panama);
- one warm set of clothes, a light jacket, comfortable and practical shoes: 1) light shoes for the city; 2) trekking boots;
- raincoat;
- bathing suit;
- sun and wind protection (cream, sunglasses, sun hat)
- headlamp;
- a backpack with a capacity of about 80 liters, or a hiking bag or suitcase;
- a small backpack for personal belongings and photo and video cameras;
- personal hygiene items;
- personal first aid kit (analgesic, antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral, intestinal, multivitamin, rehydron, plaster, motion sickness medicine, your personal medications);
- no covid requirements (requirements are subject to change),
- photo, video camera;
- camera batteries and powerbank
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself or professional team leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - REASONABLE PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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