8-Days Tour of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, board the morning train for your journey to Bukhara, located 580 kilometers away, a scenic 4-hour ride. Upon arrival in Bukhara, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the Old City, an area that evokes the charm and mystique of the Arabian Nights.

With your private local guide, embark on a walking tour to explore the most remarkable sights of Bukhara’s Old City, where history and culture come alive:

• - Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, home to the largest artificial reservoir of medieval Bukhara (14th-17th centuries). The ensemble includes some of the most iconic madrassahs (Islamic schools) in the city: the Khanaka Madrassah, Kukeldash Madrassah, and Nadir Divan Beghi Madrassah, all dating back to the 16th century.
• - Magoki-Attori Mosque, the oldest mosque in Bukhara, dating back to the 12th century, a fascinating glimpse into the region's early Islamic history.
• - Four Trade Domes (15th-16th centuries), traditional marketplaces where you can still find local handicrafts and goods on sale, preserving a piece of the past.
• - Poi Kalyan Ensemble (12th-16th centuries), one of the most striking architectural complexes in the city, including the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, Amir-Alimkhan Madrasah, and Miri-Arab Madrasah, all showcasing the grandeur of Bukhara’s Islamic heritage.
• - Ulugbek Madrasah (15th century) and Abdulazizkhan Madrasah (17th century), two stunning and relatively untouched religious schools with intricate designs and historical significance.
• - Ark Fortress (4th century), the ancient heart of Bukhara’s statehood, now housing a small museum that offers insight into the region's rich history.
• - Bolo-Khauz Complex, an 18th-century mosque with ornate decorations, a minaret, and reservoirs that once supplied water to the city, highlighting Bukhara’s historical role as a water-rich oasis.
• - Samanids Mausoleum (9th-10th centuries), believed to be the oldest brick building in Central Asia, along with the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, adding to the spiritual landscape of Bukhara.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and set off for Gijduvon, a small town renowned for its traditional crafts, particularly its high-quality ceramics that have been coveted throughout Central Asia for centuries. Take some time to admire the intricate designs and vibrant colors of local pottery before continuing your journey.

Drive to Samarkand, the historical heart of Tamerlane's Empire, located 240 kilometers away (approximately 3.5 hours). En route, make stops at Rabat-i-Malik Caravanserai, the ruins of a centuries-old roadside inn that once served travelers along the Silk Road, and Sardoba, an ancient reservoir that provided water to caravans crossing the region.

Upon arriving in Samarkand, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. You may choose to rest after your travels or venture out to explore your neighborhood and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your private tour of Samarkand, where you will visit the following iconic landmarks:

• - Gur Emir, the grand mausoleum of Tamerlane (Timur) and his grandson, Mirzo Ulugbek. This imposing burial site is a testament to the grandeur of the Timurid Empire.
• - Registan Square, Samarkand's most celebrated and historically significant site, once the heart of the city’s commerce. The square is flanked by three magnificent madrassahs: Ulugbek Madrasah (15th century), Sher-Dor Madrasah (17th century), and Tilla-Kori Madrasah (17th century).
• - Take a stroll along the Registan Boulevard, where you’ll find various workshops, souvenir stores, and ice cream stands, offering a chance to experience local life.
• - Bibi Khanum Mosque, built by Tamerlane in honor of his beloved wife, this stunning mosque is a symbol of his power and vision.
• - Siab Bazaar, a bustling market that is not only a great place for souvenir shopping but also a place to taste Samarkand’s famous bread and other local treats.
• - Shakh-i-Zinda, an awe-inspiring burial complex constructed between the 9th and 14th centuries. Walk along the broad avenue lined with over twenty small mausoleums, some with elaborate blue domes.
• - Ulugbek Observatory, the remnants of a 14th-15th century observatory built by the renowned astronomer Ulugbek. Visit the Ulugbek Museum to learn more about the history of the observatory and its scientific achievements.

After your exploration of Samarkand, you will be transferred to the train station to catch the late afternoon train to Tashkent (330 km, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes). Upon arrival in Tashkent, you will be transferred to your hotel for the evening.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan (820 km, approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival in Almaty, check into your hotel, where your guide and driver will meet you for a fascinating city tour:

• • - Begin with a walk through Panfilov Park, where you will visit the World War II Memorial Complex, featuring a massive monument of brave soldiers and an eternal flame to honor their memory.
  • - Explore Zenkov Cathedral (also known as Ascension Cathedral), located in Panfilov Park. This colorful five-domed wooden structure, built without a single metal nail, is one of the oldest buildings in Almaty.
  • - Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Green Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with colorful displays, tempting aromas, and a chance to purchase local dried fruits and Kazakhstan’s famous chocolates. Be sure to try your hand at bargaining!
  • - Visit Republic Square, where important government buildings such as the Mayor’s Office, Central State Museum, and former Presidential Palace surround the Monument of Independence, featuring the iconic Golden Man statue and bronze bas-reliefs that narrate the country’s history.
  • - Admire the grandeur of the Almaty Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia, with its striking gold domes and regal white marble exterior. The interior is just as impressive, showcasing artistic simplicity and tranquility.
  • - Tour the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, home to nearly a quarter million exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of Kazakhstan, including a replica of the Golden Man, a symbol of ancient nomadic cultures.
  • - Take a ride on the Almaty Metro, a modern subway system where each station is uniquely designed with colorful murals that depict various themes. Stop at 2-3 stations to admire the intricate artwork and architectural beauty.

After your exploration, you will be driven back to your hotel to relax.

After breakfast, meet your guide and driver at the hotel and begin the scenic drive to Charyn Canyon (220 km, approximately 3-4 hours). Along the way, enjoy the views of the Altai Mountains and picturesque villages that dot the landscape.

Upon arrival at the canyon, embark on a hike to the bottom to get a close-up view of the Charyn River as it roars through the gorge. Take a moment to rest and enjoy a picnic lunch while your guide shares fascinating insights into the natural history and geology of the area.

Next, continue your exploration of Charyn Canyon, where the towering slopes rise up to 300 meters, creating a dramatic and breathtaking landscape. The Castles Valley, stretching for over 2 kilometers, is one of the most striking features of the canyon, with its unique rock formations resembling ancient castles. Spend the afternoon wandering through the ridges and winding paths of this stunning "fairytale" land, taking in the diverse scenery and atmosphere.

After the hike, you will drive back to Almaty.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital (1200 km, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes). Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel for check-in, where your guide will meet you to begin the city tour.

Your exploration of Astana will include:

• - Independence Square, a grand marble plaza adorned with symbolic sculptures, with the highlight being the Kazakh Eli Monument, standing 91 meters tall.
• - A visit to the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, the largest mosque in Kazakhstan, featuring a dome that measures 51 x 28 meters, and four towering minarets, each 77 meters high. The mosque’s exterior is beautifully landscaped with fountains and flowers, while the interior is decorated with intricate Kazakh motifs.
• - Continue to the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a striking glass-and-granite pyramid designed by architect Norman Foster. This architectural wonder symbolizes unity and houses conference halls, exhibition rooms, and even an opera house.
• - Cross the Ishim River and stroll along Nurzhol Boulevard, a pedestrian walkway lined with sculptures representing Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage. The boulevard leads to Round Square, a vibrant hub filled with shops, cafes, and fountains.
• - Ride to the top of Bayterek Tower, also known as the Tree of Life, which offers panoramic views of the city. While at the top, you’ll have the chance to place your palm in the golden imprint of President Nazarbayev’s hand.
• - End your day with a visit to Khan-Shatyr, a remarkable shopping mall and entertainment center housed in the world’s largest tent. The innovative eco-structure ensures a comfortable temperature inside, even during the harsh winters.

After the tour, return to your hotel for the evening.

Enjoy some free time in the morning to relax or explore the city further at your own pace. Check out of your hotel by noon and transfer to Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport for your departure.

End of 8-Day Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan tour

Why Choose DOCA TOURS for Your Central Asia trips?

• ✔ Unforgettable Journeys – Explore Uzbekistan & Kazakhstan with expertly crafted tours.
• ✔ Top Landmarks – Visit Silk Road cities, Charyn Canyon, Almaty, Astana & UNESCO sites.
• ✔ Comfort & Convenience – High-speed trains, private transfers, 3-4 hotels, expert guides*.
• ✔ Authentic Experiences – Meet local artisans, explore vibrant bazaars, taste traditional cuisine.
• ✔ Stress-Free Travel – All-inclusive service, flexible itineraries & trusted expertise.
• ✔ Discover the Silk Road with DOCA TOURS!