Samarkand & Tamerlane's Testament
Trip Details
- Duration: 15 days
- Visited Areas: Uzbekistan , Turkmenistan
Strategically positioned along the Silk Route, the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva were famed trading centres for the caravans that passed this way in ancient times. On this trip we follow in their footsteps, discovering magnificent architecture and bustling bazaars that have changed little since the rule of Tamerlane. We'll stay with nomads in the Kyzylkum Desert, explore the imposing Oxus Valley, tour the wonders of Samarkand and head into the markets of Ashgabat to practice our bargaining skills. This is a spectacular journey to the heart of Central Asia.
Itinerary
Days 4-5 Khiva
Gaze up at the ancient walls surrounding Khiva and imagine how they once provided sanctuary for weary Silk Road travellers. Explore the historic and perfectly preserved Old Town, beautifully decorated in classic turquoise tiles.
Days 6-8 Bukhara
Get to know Central Asia's holiest city, where the combination of buildings spanning a thousand years and a thoroughly lived-in Old Town help create the awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Days 10-12 Samarkand
Travel to one of Central Asia's most magical cities, Uzbekistan's Samarkand. Discover the romance of the Silk Road in this perfectly preserved city full of exotic architecture and majestic buildings.
Days 13-15 Tashkent
End your Samarkand and Tamerlane's Testament adventure in the most modern of Uzbekistan's cities. Visit Tashkent's thriving Chorsu Bazaar to pick up Soviet-style souvenirs and admire the ornately decorated Kukeldash Medressa.
Day 1 Ashgabat
Start your Samarkand and Tamerlane's Testament adventure among the futuristic architecture of Ashgabat. Spy the world's largest hand-woven rug or learn about the city's traumatic history at the Earthquake Museum.
Day 2 Darwasa
Sleep under the stars in the Karakum Desert. See the spectacular fires of the Darvaza Gas Crater.
Day 9 Nurata
Spend a night in a yurt camp with the local nomads, sleeping among the dunes of the Red Desert.