General
Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour (12 Days – A) – (2026-27)
This Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan Tour takes you on an exciting adventure through the heart of Central Asia. It features legendary Silk Road cities, majestic mountain panoramas, and stunning desert beauty. Furthermore, the route combines ancient history, current traditions, and modern capitals. Carefully selected routes enable a seamless journey, while various encounters foster a strong cultural connection across the region.
In addition to this tour, you can also explore other exciting multi-country tours listed in the table below.
| 3 STAN TOURS (CENTRAL ASIA) | DURATION | Price per person (USD) | Minimum Required to Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan Tour (16 days) | 16 days | 3350 | 4 pax |
| Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan Tour (16 days) | 16 days | 2110 | 4 pax |
| Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan Tour (18 days) | 18 days | 3315 | 4 pax |
| Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan Tour (16 days) | 16 days | 2525 | 4 pax |
| Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan Tour (18 days) | 18 days | 2830 | 4 pax |
| Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour (12 days - A) | 12 days | 2495 | 4 pax |
| Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour (14 days) | 14 days | 2620 | 4 pax |
| Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour (12 days - B) | 12 days | 2295 | 4 pax |
| Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan Tour (14 days) | 14 days | 2675 | 4 pax |
| 3 STAN TOURS (CENTRAL ASIA) | DURATION | Price per person (USD) | Minimum Required to Guarantee |
Itinerary – Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour
The itinerary for the Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour Tour appears below.
Day 02: Tashkent – Samarkand
On this Day
Departure from Tashkent goes to the legendary city of Samarkand, where a guided sightseeing tour commences upon arrival. The tour begins at the magnificent Gur Emir Mausoleum, the ultimate burial place of Amir Timur and his dynasty. Registan Square, surrounded by three monumental madrasahs, serves as the city's core. The trip continues to the magnificent Bibi Khanim Mosque and the atmospheric Shahi Zinda Necropolis. A visit to the vibrant Siyab Bazaar provides an opportunity to experience local color and cuisine. The day ends with rest and an overnight stay in Samarkand.
Day 03: Samarkand – Seven Lakes – Penjikent
On this Day
Following crossing formalities, travel toward the Jartepa border takes you to Tajikistan's rocky terrain. On the Tajik side, the tour continues into the Fan Mountains for an off-road adventure to the breathtaking Seven Lakes, also known as Haftkul and Marguzor. Each lake, including Nezhigon, Soybean, Gushor, Nofin, Hurdak, Marguzor, and Hazorchashma, has unique hues and elevations caused primarily by natural dams. Scenic stops along narrow mountain tracks provide for breathtaking views. Before heading to Penjikent, we stop at a nearby guesthouse for a traditional meal. Arrival is followed by a rest and overnight stay.
Day 04: Penjikent – Samarkand
On this Day
The day begins with the discovery of Penjikent in the Rudaki Museum, which honors Abu Abdallah Rudaki, the creator of Persian poetry. Visits to the local bazaar and mosque offer a glimpse into everyday life. The tour continues at the Sarazm Museum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases ancient civilizations. Exploration of the archaeological ruins of Old Penjikent reveals the remains of a once-thriving Sogdian Silk Road city made of clay brick. Later, travel resumes to the Jartepa border, followed by re-entry into Uzbekistan. Upon arriving, the transfer back to Samarkand allows for relaxation and an overnight stay.
Day 05: Samarkand – Asraf
On this Day
Departure from Samarkand takes you to the rural village of Asraf, where you will be greeted warmly by a local family and experience traditional Uzbek hospitality. A home-style lunch at the guesthouse includes regional specialties made with local ingredients. The surrounding area invites leisurely exploration, including simple hiking across picturesque landscapes linked to the nearby Nurata National Park. The park is known for its prehistoric petroglyphs dating back to 9000 BC, as well as waterfalls and inscriptions left by Sufi dervishes centuries later. Time is set aside for photography and peaceful walks that reveal layers of history etched into stone and environment. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay at the village guesthouse.
Day 06: Asraf – Gijduvan – Bukhara
On this Day
After a handmade breakfast, the trip returns to Samarkand, stopping in Gijduvan, which is known for its centuries-old pottery traditions. A tour to a family-run pottery workshop provides insight into the entire manufacturing process, from molding clay on the wheel to making natural colors and firing final pieces. The museum hall houses an impressive collection of Gijduvan pottery and regional masterpieces. Guests attend a hands-on ceramic painting master class, followed by lunch at the artist's home. The tour then continues to Bukhara, one of Central Asia's most important cultural sites. Arrival gives you time to relax before your overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 07: Full-Day Bukhara Tour
On this Day
A guided walking tour of Bukhara reveals the city's architectural and cultural riches. The expedition begins at the Lyabi Hauz ensemble, which includes old madrasahs, a khanaka, and a statue of Khoja Nasreddin. The historic Magoki Attari Mosque shows pre-Mongol origins, and Abdullakhan's Tim demonstrates traditional crafts. Visits continue to antique caravanserais and covered trading domes such as Toki Sarrofon, Toki Telpak Furushon, and Toki Zargaron. The Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrasahs have distinct ornamental styles. The tour finishes at Poi Kalon Square, which features a high minaret, mosque, and Mir Arab Madrasah, followed by the historic Ark Fortress. Overnight stay in Bukhara.
Day 08: Bukhara – Mary – Ashgabat
On this Day
Travel to the Alat border to enter Turkmenistan, then continue to Mary. There, the group visits Ancient Merv, a large archeological park that was once a significant Silk Road metropolis. Highlights include the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Mohammed bin Said Mausoleum, early medieval "Kesk" castles, and a regional history museum. Following the site inspections, transfer to Mary Airport enables for continued travel to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, guests are transferred to the hotel for rest and overnight stay, capping off a day rich in international history and cultural shifts.
Day 09: Ashgabat – Darwaza
On this Day
Sightseeing in Ashgabat reveals great monuments and old treasures. The tour begins at the ruins of Ancient Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the Parthian Empire. Visits continue to the majestic Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum complex, the Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, which was inspired by Ottoman architecture, Independence Park, with its soaring monument, and the revolving Neutrality Arch. The journey then continues northward into the Karakum Desert, towards the famed Darvaza Gas Crater. The natural phenomenon, which has burned continually since its discovery, provides an astonishing sight. A camp-style meal and overnight stay in traditional yurts will follow.
Day 10: Darwaza – Khiva
On this Day
After breakfast at the desert camp, the journey continues across the Karakum scenery to the Dashoguz-Shavat border, which includes off-road desert travel. Before entering Uzbekistan, both sides complete their border formalities, and the group is met by a local driver. The path continues to the medieval city of Khiva, which was formerly a vital oasis on the Silk Road. Upon arrival, time is set aside for relaxation and personal exploration of the surroundings. The ambiance of Khiva, with its restored mud-brick walls and minarets, sets the tone for further exploration the next day. Overnight accommodations are booked at a hotel in or near the historic district.
Day 11: Khiva – Urgench – Tashkent
On this Day
A walking tour of Ichan-Kala, the fortified inner city, and an open-air museum highlighting Khiva's architectural heritage. Visits include Ata-Darvaza, Kunya-Ark citadel, the madrasahs of Muhammad Rahim Khan and Muhammad Amin Khan, the Kalta Minor minaret, Tash Hauli Palace with its former harem, caravanserais, Seyd Allaudin's Mausoleum, Islam Khoja Minaret and Madrasah, and the Jami Mosque with its carved wooden columns. Following the trip, transfer to Urgench Airport for a domestic flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted and transferred to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 12: Departure to home country
On this Day
The final day of the voyage through Central Asia brings it to an end. After breakfast, a transfer is organized to Tashkent International Airport for departure. This concludes an intensive exploration of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan that included ancient Silk Road cities, mountain scenery, desert wonders, and rich cultural traditions. Guests leave with enduring recollections of historic architecture, local kindness, and diverse natural beauty seen throughout Apricot Tours' meticulously planned twelve-day program.
Holiday Information
What’s included
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
What’s not included
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide’s working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa for the country (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Highlights – Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour
The Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour have a lot to offer. Below are the main highlights.
- Exploring Samarkand Registan Square reveals iconic Silk Road architecture.
- Discovering Bukhara Old City showcases preserved Islamic monuments and traditions.
- Visiting Khiva Ichan-Kala offers immersive open-air museum experiences.
- Traveling through Seven Lakes of Tajikistan highlights dramatic mountain scenery.
- Exploring Penjikent ancient ruins uncovers Sogdian Silk Road history.
- Experiencing Nurata Mountains village life connects nature, culture, and traditions.
- Crossing borders to Ancient Merv reveals vast UNESCO-listed archaeological landscapes.
- Discovering Ashgabat monumental architecture shows Turkmenistan’s modern national identity.
- Visiting the Darwaza Gas Crater creates unforgettable desert night impressions.
- Experiencing traditional Central Asian hospitality enriches the entire multi-country journey.
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Overview – Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan Tour
This 12-day travel through Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan provides a thorough introduction to Central Asia’s history, culture, and landscapes. The voyage begins in Uzbekistan, where ancient Silk Road cities boast massive architecture, thriving bazaars, and centuries-old traditions. Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are iconic attractions with large squares, beautiful madrasahs, and spectacular mausoleums. Along the route, visitors will encounter local artisans, traditional cuisine, and historical influences on daily life. Furthermore, well-planned transfers ensure a comfortable journey between cities while maximizing time for exploration. This itinerary combines guided sightseeing with relaxation, resulting in a fascinating and immersive travel experience through one of the world’s most historic places.
The expedition continues into Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, where magnificent natural scenery and distinct cultural contrasts await. Tajikistan’s Fan Mountains and Seven Lakes offer spectacular views and calm village life, while Penjikent showcases ancient Sogdian civilization. Meanwhile, Turkmenistan shows visitors stunning new structures in Ashgabat and the immense Karakum Desert. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ancient Merv and the spectacular Darwaza Gas Crater, sometimes known as the “Door to Hell.” Furthermore, crossing various boundaries fosters a sense of curiosity and geographical diversity. Overall, this trip is great for those interested in history, nature, and cultural diversity. It provides a thorough Central Asian journey that is both enriching and unforgettable.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
