Description

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 overland 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 Turkmenistan’s Desert, explore the imposing Oxus Valley, tour the wonders of Samarkand and head into the markets of Ashgabat to practice our bargaining skills. Samarkand and Tamerlane’s Testament is a rewarding journey to the heart of Central Asia.

Highlights

• Pick up souvenirs in the bazaars of Tashkent.
• Discover the romance of the Silk Road in Samarkand.
• Spend a memorable night sleeping in a yurt.
• Walk through Bukhara´s historic Old Town.
• Gaze up at the ancient walls surrounding Khiva .
• Discover the futuristic architecture of Ashgabat.
• Learn about the Tamerlane’s dynasty.

Itinerary

Day 1 Tashkent

Start the journey in the most modern of Uzbekistan’s cities, Tashkent. Visit the Chorsu Bazaar to pick up Soviet-style souvenirs and admire the ornately decorated Kukeldash Medressa.

Days 2-4 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.

Day 5 Yurt Stay

Spend a night in a yurt camp with the local nomads, sleeping among the dunes of the Red Desert.

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 combine to create an awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Days 9-10 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.

Day 11 Kunye Urgench

Follow a local trading route through harsh desert sands, and meet the nomadic people who call this inhospitable region home.

Day 12 Darwasa

Drive across the Karakum Desert. If time allows, see the amazing Darvaza Gas Crater.

Days 13-15 Ashgabat

End your adventure among the futuristic architecture of Ashgabat's skyline. Spy the world's largest hand-woven rug or learn about the city's traumatic history at the Earthquake Museum.

Group Size

Maximum of 21 travellers per group

Accommodation

Bush camp (no facilities), Hotel, Yurt

Transport

Overland vehicle

Important notes

1. Some destinations visited on this trip do not have consulates in Australia and New Zealand. We recommend that travellers from these countries book the WESTBOUND itinerary of this trip where some visas can be obtained en route.2. Please note that this trip requires minimum numbers to depart, and may be cancelled up until 56 days prior to departure. The places showing on the dates and availability page are an indication only so please contact Intrepid to check if your preferred date will depart before making any final arrangements, such as booking non-changeable flights.3. Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details.