Forgotten Oases
On this journey, you will visit the cultural cities of Tashkent, Bukhara, Shakhrisabz, and Samarkand, as well as desert mountains and oases. Uzbekistan’s natural landscape is extremely diverse – with its mountains, rivers, and vast desert regions, it is a land of striking contrasts. We will also explore remote locations where you will discover forgotten oases during your hikes.
We experience the delicate balance between Islamic tradition and modernity, immerse ourselves in the medieval atmosphere of bustling bazaars, and relax in blooming oases. Travel with us – we will show you the region’s cultural wealth and guide you through our homeland with expertise and enthusiasm!
Detailed 9-Day Itinerary
Flight to Tashkent. Arrival in the evening or early the next morning (depending on flight connection). Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your tour guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Tashkent.
After breakfast at the hotel, you will take a tour of Tashkent’s old town. Today we visit the Khast-Imam Complex. On the large square are the Tilla Sheikh Mosque, the Barak Khan Madrasa, and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, all of which reflect the time when Tashkent was a center of Islamic culture and religion. The madrasa’s library houses the oldest known version of the Quran, dating back to the time of the third Caliph, Uthman.
Next, we visit the “Chorsu” Bazaar, already known in the Middle Ages and located at the crossroads of caravanserais along the Great Silk Road. It remains one of the largest markets in Tashkent, not far from the city center.
In the afternoon, we explore the modern part of the city, visiting Independence Square, the Mourning Mother Monument, the Alisher Navoi Opera House, and Amir Timur Park with its monument.
At 6:50 PM we board the high-speed “Afrosiyob” train to Samarkand. Arrival at 8:58 PM. Dinner at a local restaurant.
Three overnight stays in Samarkand.
Samarkand bears many symbolic names, one of which is the “Rome of the East” because it is as old as Rome. Throughout history, it was not only a center for culture, trade, and education, but also the scene of many power struggles. Samarkand experienced its golden age under Amir Timur (Tamerlane).
Today we visit:
Tomb complex of the Prophet Daniel – the largest pilgrimage site in the Islamic world
Ulugh Beg Observatory – once the most important research center in Central Asia
Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis (“Living King”) – a “city of the dead” where members of Timur’s family are buried
Afrosiyob Museum, next to the archaeological site – here you’ll learn about the 2,700-year history of the city
Optional: In the late afternoon, you can visit the “El-Merosi” Theater (“Heritage of the People”), where a folklore show portrays the region’s history through dance. The performance features traditional costumes from various historical eras of Uzbekistan – from the Bronze Age to the present.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we visit one of Uzbekistan's landmarks – the famous Registan Square with its magnificent madrasas, which will leave unforgettable memories of Samarkand. We then visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once considered one of the greatest sacred buildings in the Orient. According to legend, Tamerlane had the mosque built for his beloved wife.
Immediately after visiting the mosque, we stroll through the Siyob Bazaar, where you can sample the famous Samarkand bread, which owes its unique flavor to the clay ovens (tandyrs) heated with cotton twigs.
In the morning, we visit a tissue paper factory founded by the Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the ancient tradition of papermaking using Samarkand technology was revived. What's particularly impressive is that the entire production process is carried out by hand, allowing visitors to experience it up close. The factory is located in a picturesque setting with shady trees, the Siyob River, and a small tearoom where you can take a break.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we drive southward through the mountain landscapes to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Amir Timur. Upon arrival, we visit the Ak-Saray Palace ruins, Dorut Tilovat and Dor-us Saodat complexes, which reflect Timur’s grand vision for his hometown.
After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our journey toward the Nurata Mountains. As we leave the paved roads behind, the surroundings become increasingly remote. In the evening, we arrive at a desert camp in the Kyzylkum region.
Experience the quiet beauty of the steppe, enjoy a traditional dinner, and listen to folk songs around the campfire.
Overnight stay in a yurt camp.
After a simple but hearty breakfast, we drive to the nearby Aydarkul Lake, a serene, expansive body of water in the middle of the desert. Here, you’ll have time to relax, swim, or walk along the shoreline.
After a picnic by the lake, we head into the Nurata Mountains, where we begin a light hiking tour through remote villages and untouched landscapes. We’ll arrive in a small mountain village by late afternoon.
Overnight in a guesthouse with a local family – a genuine insight into rural life in Uzbekistan.
Today is dedicated to discovering forgotten oases and experiencing life in the Uzbek highlands. During your guided hike, you’ll pass terraced gardens, springs, walnut groves, and hidden spots where nature seems untouched by time.
Along the way, you'll meet friendly villagers, observe traditional farming methods, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Dinner and overnight stay at the guesthouse.
After breakfast, we say farewell to our hosts and drive through picturesque landscapes to Bukhara, one of the most atmospheric cities of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, we check in at the hotel and take a first short walk through the old town.
Dinner in a historic caravanserai or traditional house.
Overnight stay in Bukhara.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief city walk or souvenir shopping.
Transfer to the airport in Bukhara or return to Tashkent by train or car for your departure flight.
Book Your 9-Day Tour Today: Forgotten Oases!
Included in the standard price:
Round trip / excursions and transfers in air-conditioned, locally typical vehicles
2 train rides: Tashkent–Samarkand, Bukhara–Tashkent
6 nights in mid-range hotels (local classification) in double rooms and 2 nights with a local family
Meals – half-board according to the program
Sightseeing program including entrance fees as described in the itinerary
English-speaking tour guide from DOCA TOURS from/to Tashkent Airport
Not included in the standard price:
International flights
Photo/video fees
Tips for guide and driver
Visa fees
Thank you for your interest in our travel offers – we truly appreciate it!
With us, you will embark on some of the most unforgettable journeys of your life.
Simply send us your travel request, and we will create a customized itinerary based on your preferences.
We take a flexible, personal approach to ensure your trip matches your expectations exactly.
Once we receive your request, you will receive a response within 24 hours.
For a faster reply, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp: +99893 352 00 44.
We look forward to planning your dream trip!
Your DOCA TOURS Team
Book Your 9-Day Tour Today: Forgotten Oases!
Included in the standard price:
Round trip / excursions and transfers in air-conditioned, locally typical vehicles
2 train rides: Tashkent–Samarkand, Bukhara–Tashkent
6 nights in mid-range hotels (local classification) in double rooms and 2 nights with a local family
Meals – half-board according to the program
Sightseeing program including entrance fees as described in the itinerary
English-speaking tour guide from DOCA TOURS from/to Tashkent Airport
Not included in the standard price:
International flights
Photo/video fees
Tips for guide and driver
Visa fees
Thank you for your interest in our travel offers – we truly appreciate it!
With us, you will embark on some of the most unforgettable journeys of your life.
Simply send us your travel request, and we will create a customized itinerary based on your preferences.
We take a flexible, personal approach to ensure your trip matches your expectations exactly.
Once we receive your request, you will receive a response within 24 hours.
For a faster reply, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp: +99893 352 00 44.
We look forward to planning your dream trip!
Your DOCA TOURS Team
Flight to Tashkent. Arrival in the evening or early the next morning (depending on flight connection). Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your tour guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Tashkent.
After breakfast at the hotel, you will take a tour of Tashkent’s old town. Today we visit the Khast-Imam Complex. On the large square are the Tilla Sheikh Mosque, the Barak Khan Madrasa, and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, all of which reflect the time when Tashkent was a center of Islamic culture and religion. The madrasa’s library houses the oldest known version of the Quran, dating back to the time of the third Caliph, Uthman.
Next, we visit the “Chorsu” Bazaar, already known in the Middle Ages and located at the crossroads of caravanserais along the Great Silk Road. It remains one of the largest markets in Tashkent, not far from the city center.
In the afternoon, we explore the modern part of the city, visiting Independence Square, the Mourning Mother Monument, the Alisher Navoi Opera House, and Amir Timur Park with its monument.
At 6:50 PM we board the high-speed “Afrosiyob” train to Samarkand. Arrival at 8:58 PM. Dinner at a local restaurant.
Three overnight stays in Samarkand.
Samarkand bears many symbolic names, one of which is the “Rome of the East” because it is as old as Rome. Throughout history, it was not only a center for culture, trade, and education, but also the scene of many power struggles. Samarkand experienced its golden age under Amir Timur (Tamerlane).
Today we visit:
Tomb complex of the Prophet Daniel – the largest pilgrimage site in the Islamic world
Ulugh Beg Observatory – once the most important research center in Central Asia
Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis (“Living King”) – a “city of the dead” where members of Timur’s family are buried
Afrosiyob Museum, next to the archaeological site – here you’ll learn about the 2,700-year history of the city
Optional: In the late afternoon, you can visit the “El-Merosi” Theater (“Heritage of the People”), where a folklore show portrays the region’s history through dance. The performance features traditional costumes from various historical eras of Uzbekistan – from the Bronze Age to the present.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we visit one of Uzbekistan's landmarks – the famous Registan Square with its magnificent madrasas, which will leave unforgettable memories of Samarkand. We then visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once considered one of the greatest sacred buildings in the Orient. According to legend, Tamerlane had the mosque built for his beloved wife.
Immediately after visiting the mosque, we stroll through the Siyob Bazaar, where you can sample the famous Samarkand bread, which owes its unique flavor to the clay ovens (tandyrs) heated with cotton twigs.
In the morning, we visit a tissue paper factory founded by the Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the ancient tradition of papermaking using Samarkand technology was revived. What's particularly impressive is that the entire production process is carried out by hand, allowing visitors to experience it up close. The factory is located in a picturesque setting with shady trees, the Siyob River, and a small tearoom where you can take a break.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we drive southward through the mountain landscapes to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Amir Timur. Upon arrival, we visit the Ak-Saray Palace ruins, Dorut Tilovat and Dor-us Saodat complexes, which reflect Timur’s grand vision for his hometown.
After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our journey toward the Nurata Mountains. As we leave the paved roads behind, the surroundings become increasingly remote. In the evening, we arrive at a desert camp in the Kyzylkum region.
Experience the quiet beauty of the steppe, enjoy a traditional dinner, and listen to folk songs around the campfire.
Overnight stay in a yurt camp.
After a simple but hearty breakfast, we drive to the nearby Aydarkul Lake, a serene, expansive body of water in the middle of the desert. Here, you’ll have time to relax, swim, or walk along the shoreline.
After a picnic by the lake, we head into the Nurata Mountains, where we begin a light hiking tour through remote villages and untouched landscapes. We’ll arrive in a small mountain village by late afternoon.
Overnight in a guesthouse with a local family – a genuine insight into rural life in Uzbekistan.
Today is dedicated to discovering forgotten oases and experiencing life in the Uzbek highlands. During your guided hike, you’ll pass terraced gardens, springs, walnut groves, and hidden spots where nature seems untouched by time.
Along the way, you'll meet friendly villagers, observe traditional farming methods, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Dinner and overnight stay at the guesthouse.
After breakfast, we say farewell to our hosts and drive through picturesque landscapes to Bukhara, one of the most atmospheric cities of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, we check in at the hotel and take a first short walk through the old town.
Dinner in a historic caravanserai or traditional house.
Overnight stay in Bukhara.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief city walk or souvenir shopping.
Transfer to the airport in Bukhara or return to Tashkent by train or car for your departure flight.
