Travel guide
Amir Timur (Tamerlane) — Where to Follow His Story in Uzbekistan
Conqueror, builder and national symbol — who Amir Timur was, and the places in Uzbekistan where his story is still told.
Travel guide
Uzbekistan Travel Guide
Practical, honest advice from people who guide in Uzbekistan — written to help you plan, whether or not you book with us.
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Travel guide
The Aral Sea — What Happened, and How to See It from Uzbekistan
Once one of the largest lakes in the world, the Aral Sea has largely disappeared. Here is the story — and what you see when you visit Moynaq today.
Travel guide
Is Uzbekistan Safe for Tourists? An Honest Answer from Local Guides
Most travellers find Uzbekistan relaxed, friendly and easy to explore. Here is our honest view — and the everyday precautions worth taking.
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Money in Uzbekistan — Cash, Cards, ATMs and Exchange
Uzbek som, cards, ATMs and exchange — the practical money tips our guides give every traveller before their first day.
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Navruz in Uzbekistan — The Spring New Year Explained
On 21 March Uzbekistan celebrates Navruz, the spring New Year. Here is what the holiday means and how to enjoy it as a traveller.
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Travelling in Uzbekistan during Ramadan — What to Expect
Ramadan changes the rhythm of the day in Uzbekistan, but travel carries on normally. Here is what visitors should know.
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Samarkand, Bukhara or Khiva — Which Silk Road City to Choose?
All three are unforgettable, but they feel very different. Here is how we help travellers choose — and how to combine them if you can.
Travel guide
The Savitsky Museum in Nukus — The "Louvre of the Desert" Explained
How did one of the great collections of Soviet avant-garde art end up in Nukus? The story of Igor Savitsky and his museum — and how to visit.
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The Silk Road in Uzbekistan — A Short History for Travellers
From Sogdian merchants to Timur's empire and the khanates — the story behind the cities you will visit, in ten minutes.
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Madrasa, Minaret, Khanaka — A Traveller's Glossary of Uzbek Architecture
Madrasa, iwan, pishtaq, khanaka — the words your guide will use, explained simply so you can read the buildings yourself.
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Uzbek Tea Culture — The Chaikhana and How to Drink Tea Like a Local
In Uzbekistan, tea is not just a drink but a way of spending time together. Here is how tea culture works — and where to enjoy it.
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Uzbekistan in Winter — Is It Worth Visiting from December to February?
Cold mornings, empty squares and soft winter light — winter in Uzbekistan is quiet and rewarding if you come prepared.
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Uzbekistan with Kids — A Family Travel Guide from Local Guides
Uzbekistan is a warm, family-minded country, and children are welcome everywhere. Here is how to plan days that work for the whole family.
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Visiting an Uzbek Home — Hospitality and Etiquette Tips
Hospitality is a point of honour in Uzbekistan. A few simple customs will help you feel at ease as a guest — and delight your hosts.
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What to Buy in Uzbekistan — Souvenirs, Crafts and Where to Find Them
Uzbekistan is a craft lover's country. Here is what to look for, which city each craft comes from, and how to buy well.
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What to Eat in Uzbekistan — Dishes Worth Trying, City by City
Plov, samsa, lagman and green Khorezm noodles — the dishes our guides tell every guest to try, where to find them and how to eat well as a vegetarian.
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The Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan for Sightseeing
Spring and autumn are ideal, summer needs early starts, and winter has the old towns almost to yourself. How each season changes your days.
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Getting Between Cities in Uzbekistan — Train, Plane or Car?
Fast trains, a domestic flight to Urgench or a private car through the desert — which way to travel between the Silk Road cities, and when each makes sense.
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How to Hire a Private Guide in Uzbekistan
Languages, tickets, timing and the questions worth asking before you book — a practical checklist from guides who live here.
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How Many Days Do You Need in Khiva?
One day shows you Itchan Kala; two days show you Khorezm. Sample plans for one, two and three days from people who live in Khiva.
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One Day in Bukhara — A Walkable Itinerary
Bukhara's old town is compact and almost entirely walkable. Here is the order we follow when a guest has only one day.
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One Day in Samarkand — A Realistic Plan
Registan, Gur-e-Amir, Bibi-Khanym, the bazaar and Shah-i-Zinda in one day — in the order that avoids crowds and catches the best light.
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One Day in Tashkent — Old Town, Bazaar and Metro
Tashkent is a big modern city with an old heart. One day is enough to see both — here is how we plan it.
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Photography in Uzbekistan — Etiquette and Practical Tips
Uzbekistan is wonderfully photogenic and people are usually happy to be photographed — if you ask first. Etiquette, rules and the best light, from locals.
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Tipping in Uzbekistan — Guides, Drivers and Restaurants
Tipping is not obligatory in Uzbekistan, but it is appreciated. Here is how it works with guides, drivers, restaurants and hotels.
Travel guide
What to Wear When Sightseeing in Uzbekistan
Relaxed dress in the cities, modest clothes for mosques and shrines, and the one thing everyone forgets — good walking shoes.
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