From the legendary cities of the Silk Road to the golden valley of Ferghana

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Paris – Istanbul – Urgench (flights)

  

  Flight to Urgench on regular Turkish Airlines flights. Dinner and overnight on board.

• day 2

  Ourghentch – Khiva

  

  Early in the morning, arrival at Urgench International Airport, welcome by your French-speaking guide-escort, then transfer towards Khiva (30 km / ~40 min). Arrival, transfer and check-in at the hotel. The room will be available upon your arrival. Rest time and breakfast at the hotel. Discovery of the walled city of Khiva, or Itchan-Kala, a true treasure of oriental architecture that seems straight out of the tales of "One Thousand and One Nights": - The Muhammad Amin Khan madrasa (19th century), located near the Kalta Minor ("Short Minaret" in Uzbek), which is the most iconic landmark of the city. - The Koukhna Ark fortress ("Old Fortress") which includes the Juma Mosque, the Throne Hall, the Mint, and the Chancellery. - The Mohammed Rakhim Khan madrasa (19th century), the poet khan, known under the pseudonym Ferouz, where not only traditional Islamic studies were taught, but also secular subjects such as astronomy, geography, and mathematics. - The mausoleum of Said Alauddin (14th century), considered one of the oldest monuments in Khiva. - The Juma Mosque (10th-17th centuries) with its 218 carved wooden columns. Lunch at the "Zarafshan" café or similar, located in the setting of a former madrasa (free). In the afternoon, continuation of the guided tours of Khiva with: - The Islam Khodja madrasa and its 45 m high minaret, an ideal place to have a panoramic view of the old city. - The Tach Khaouli, or the "Stone Palace" (1825 – 1842), composed of three main buildings: the coronation hall, a reception room, and a harem. - The Saraï Allakouli Khan madrasa and caravanserai (1835), decorated with Khorezmian-style majolica in shades of black and white, as well as blue. - The Pakhlavon Makhmoud mausoleum, a famous poet and warrior who became the patron saint of Khiva. Dinner with a family in a traditional house with the possibility of a cooking master class (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 3

  Khiva – Toprak Kala – Ayaz Kala – Khiva

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Early departure towards the Ellik-Kala region (140 km / ~2h drive), where once stood cities and royal castles of ancient Khorezm. - Visit of the Kyzyl Kala fortress, or the "Red Fortress" (1st-4th c. AD), which served as an advanced defense for the Toprak Kala site. - Nearby, the Toprak-Kala fortress, whose name translates as "Fortress covered with earth" (1st c. BC - 5th c. AD), the most impressive and systematically explored in the region. - After an hour's drive, discovery of Ayaz-Kala, three ruined fortresses (3rd-2nd c. BC), where twelve gold statuettes were discovered in the residence of Ayaz Khan. Lunch at the "Ayaz Kala" yurt camp, at the foot of the fortress ruins (free). In the afternoon, return to Khiva, arrival and transfer to the hotel. Rest time. Dinner at the family restaurant "Mirzaboshi" on the terrace at sunset or similar (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 4

  Khiva – Bukhara

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Early departure towards Bukhara (450 km/~6h drive) passing through the red sands of the Kizil-Kum desert, then crossing the arid steppe with its herds of astrakhan sheep. On the way, stop at the Amu Darya river, a true blue serpent in the desert. Lunch in a local chaikhana, where you can taste beef or lamb skewers (at your own expense). Arrival in the late afternoon, transfer and check-in at the hotel. Time to rest. - A pleasant walk in the old town to Lyabi-Khauz square, passing by Bukharan mudbrick and adobe houses located in an old Jewish quarter of Bukhara. Dinner outdoors on the terrace of the "Old Bukhara" restaurant or a similar establishment in the old town (at your own expense). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 5

  Bukhara

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, guided walking tours of the old town of Bukhara, the most secret of the caravan cities with its narrow alleys and monuments that capture the hearts of visitors: - The Samanid Mausoleum, built towards the end of the 10th century, is one of the oldest monuments in the Muslim world. - Nearby, the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, known as the "Mausoleum of the Well of Job." This site is both a tourist attraction and a place of pilgrimage. - The Bolo-Khauz Mosque with its twenty pillars (18th c.), used by the emirs of Bukhara for Friday prayers, underlines its political and religious importance in the region. - The Ark Citadel, a major historical and architectural monument of Bukhara whose foundation dates back more than 2,000 years. It served as a fortified residence for the rulers of Bukhara and represents an impressive example of medieval military and residential architecture in Central Asia. Lunch in a chaikhana by the pond on Lyabi Khaouz square or similar (free). In the afternoon, continuation of the guided tours: - The Liabi-Khaouz square (literally "by the pond") built around a beautiful pond lined with thousand-year-old mulberry trees. The complex includes the Koukeldash Madrasa (1568), the largest in Central Asia, and two religious buildings erected by Nadir Divan Beghi: the Nadir Divan Beghi Khanaka (which once served as an inn for dervishes, wandering faithful, and Sufis), whose sparkling portal is reflected in the waters of the khaouz, and the Nadir Divan Beghi Madrasa (1630), which was originally intended to be a caravanserai. - The Magok-i-Attari Mosque, built in the 9th century on the ruins of a Buddhist temple, then a Zoroastrian temple dedicated to the moon (currently the Central Asian Carpet Museum). - Stop at the markets of Toki Sarrafon, the dome of the money changers, Toki Telpakfurushon, the dome of the hat makers, and Toki Zargaron, the dome of the jewelers. - The Tim Abdoulla Khan (16th c.), the market also known as the "Dome of Commerce," built in the Persian style, which explains its resemblance to the traditional market of ancient Iranian cities. - The Ulug Beg Madrasa (1417), built by the astronomer prince of Samarkand, and that of Abdoulaziz Khan, built two hundred years later when Bukhara had become the capital of the khanate. - The Poi-Kalon square, whose name means "at the pedestal of the Most High," is one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles in Central Asia. It is composed of a Kalon minaret (1127) over 48 meters high, the Great Mosque (1514), one of the largest in Central Asia, and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa (1512), which was the only Quranic school allowed to teach religious studies during the Soviet era. At the end of the day, possibility of a coffee break at the "Shopping Cafe" (free) with a breathtaking view of the Poi-Kalon complex, then return on foot to the hotel. Dinner at "Joy Chaikhana Lounge" with live music or similar (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 6

  Bukhara

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Continuation of the exploration of Bukhara, with visits to sites located outside the city: - The Tchor Minor madrasa, also known as "the 4 minarets", is a hidden gem in the alleys of the old quarters of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Built at the beginning of the 19th century by Khalif Niyazkul, an Uzbek merchant, this structure stands out for its four unique minarets, symbolizing the diverse cultures and religions of the time. - The Bahaouddin Naqshbandi necropolis, a major pilgrimage site for Muslims, equivalent to Mecca. Bahaouddin Naqshbandi (1318-1389) is the founder of the Naqshbandiya Sufi order, one of the most influential and widespread Sufi orders in the Muslim world. The necropolis includes several structures, including the mausoleum of Bahaouddin Naqshbandi, a mosque, and various annex buildings. - The Sitora-i-Mokhi-Khossa palace, also known as the "Palace of Stars Like the Moon", was the secondary residence of the last emirs of Bukhara. Located about 4 km north of Bukhara, this palace is a prominent example of the region's architecture and decorative art. It was built at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, under the reigns of different emirs. Lunch in a typical Bukharan restaurant during the visit (free). In the afternoon, free time dedicated to personal discoveries and shopping. Dinner in a Bukharan restaurant (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 7

  Bukhara – Guijdouvan – Nurata – Yurt camp

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out. Departure towards Nourata (150 km / ~3h drive) via Guijdouvan, former artisanal center of the Silk Road, known for its ceramics and traditional embroidery. - Visit to the workshop of Alicher Narzullaev, who represents the 6th generation of master ceramists. The craft and know-how are passed down from father to son and from master to apprentice. The site visited includes a ceramics museum, an exhibition hall, the workshop, and the traditional house where the members of this artisan family live. All the men are ceramists, while the women are all embroiderers. - Stop at Karmana to discover the remains of an ancient caravanserai Rabati-Malik (11th century) and the Sardoba water reservoir (15th century). Arrival in Nourata, transfer to a guesthouse for a traditional lunch (included). In the afternoon, visit of Nourata which, according to legend, was struck by a meteorite. At the moment of impact on earth, a water spring is said to have appeared at this spot and gave birth to the city meaning "ray of the father". - The Tchachma complex, which is still today a place of pilgrimage for Muslims. The place is renowned for its healing water spring with the "marinkas", scaleless fish (a type of trout). - The ruins of an ancient citadel of Alexander the Great, which served as a border construction between the wild steppes and the agricultural regions. Short drive (60 km / 1h drive) to the "Kyzylkoum Safari" yurt camp. Upon arrival, a relaxing break (tea, dried fruits) and installation under the yurts. - At sunset, possibility of a ride on Bactrian camels in the sand dunes around the camp. In the evening, an aperitif (local drinks) followed by a festive dinner (included), then an evening around the campfire with music and traditional songs performed by the Kazakh troubadour Akyn. Night in a yurt (4 people / yurt). PRACTICAL INFORMATION Your camp is made up of about twenty comfortable yurts (Kazakh felt tents), where you will be accommodated up to 4 people per yurt. Each yurt is arranged to offer you optimal comfort. You will have a cozy bed equipped with individual bed linen (sheet, pillowcase, duvet cover) and towels. In addition, each yurt is equipped with electricity to recharge your devices. Meals are prepared with local ingredients, often based on beef or mutton, accompanied by rice, pasta, and vegetables. Vegetarian meals are available on request. * Individual yurts are subject to availability and require a supplement.

• day 8

  Yurt – Lake Aydarkul – Samarkand

  

  Breakfast at the camp. Short transfer to Lake Aydarkul, located 5 km west of the camp, a true oasis in the heart of Central Asia. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, this artificial lake with turquoise waters offers a striking spectacle that contrasts with the aridity of the surrounding desert. - Walk around the lake to discover the region's fauna and flora; swimming possible depending on the season (from April to October). Picnic lunch by the lake (included). Drive towards Samarkand (250 km/~5h drive). Arrival, transfer and check-in at the hotel. Rest time. - In the evening, walk to Registan Square to admire the beauty of the ensemble from a different angle, in the light of the sunset, not forgetting the encounters with locals who gather there (outside visit). Dinner in a city restaurant (not included). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 9

  Samarkand

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Start of guided tours of Samarkand, the capital of Tamerlane, with: - The Gur Emir mausoleum, with its enormous turquoise dome housing the tombs of Tamerlane and his descendants, including his first grandson, Ulugh Beg, a famous mathematician and astronomer, who made Samarkand a great cultural and scientific center. - Registan Square ("Sandy Square"), which is one of the most majestic ensembles in Central Asia and Islam. Visit to the Ulugh Beg madrasa, renamed in honor of Tamerlane's grandson, who was one of the greatest astronomers of the 15th century, the Sher-Dor madrasa ("which bears lions"), the Tilla Kori madrasa and mosque ("adorned with gold") built by Yalangtush Bahadur, the governor of Samarkand in the 17th century. - A walk along the famous Tashkentskaya street, which offers a pleasant and immersive experience. This iconic street starts practically at the Registan and extends to the Siab market, covering just over 2 km. The street is perfectly designed for pedestrians with wide and clean sidewalks, surrounded by greenery and carefully maintained lawns. Lined with souvenir shops, grocery stores, cafes, and traditional restaurants, this pedestrian street is closed to all traffic except for electric excursion cars. Lunch at the "Zargaron" restaurant or similar, with an exceptional view of the domes of the neighboring mosque (free). In the afternoon, continuation of the guided tours: - The Bibi Khanum mosque, considered the largest mosque in Central Asia. The building was built in the 14th century by order of Tamerlane after his military campaign in South India. It is an iconic monument of breathtaking beauty and tumultuous history. - A pleasant stroll through the picturesque Siab bazaar (closed on Mondays), where a typically oriental atmosphere reigns. It is the market for goods and all kinds of objects, but it is also the privileged place where news is exchanged, across all age groups. - The necropolis of the "Living King", or Shah-i-Zinda, which is the most imposing and picturesque masterpiece among the architectural monuments of Samarkand. The ancient complex includes 11 dazzling mausoleums with high portals decorated with majolica and stone vaults under domes in turquoise blue colors. The Shah-i-Zinda complex was a great spiritual and religious center, whose visit was considered similar to a pilgrimage to Mecca. Dinner at the "Platan" restaurant or similar, with a very original design: natural materials such as stone, wood, etc. (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 10

  Samarkand – Chakhrisabz – Samarkand

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Chakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane, located 90 km south of Samarkand (~1h drive) via the Takhtakaratcha mountain pass (1,700 m altitude). * Possibility to observe birds, such as raptors, eagles, and vultures, at the Takhtakaratcha pass on the way between Samarkand and Chakhrisabz, provided there is an early departure (depending on the season). Arrival and discovery of Chakhrisabz, one of the most important cultural centers of the East in the 14th-15th centuries, during guided tours: - The Ak-Saray Palace ("White Palace") built at the beginning of the Timurid period, between 1380 and 1396-1404, under the reign of Tamerlane. Today in ruins, only a huge portal remains, originally 71 meters high, flanked by two cylindrical towers resting on octagonal bases and currently measuring 44 meters. - The Doru-s-Tilovat architectural ensemble ("Place of Recitation"), the funerary complex built to honor Chamseddin Koulyal, a respected Sufi master and spiritual guide of Tamerlane's family. Nearby, the Kok Goumbaz mosque, which means "Blue Dome", built by Ulugh Beg, the prince-astronomer, in 1435. - The Doru-s-Siadat complex ("Seat of Power"), initially designed as a mausoleum for Djekhanguir, Tamerlane's eldest and favorite son, who died prematurely at the age of 22. Next to it, the crypt of Tamerlane (although his body was buried in Samarkand) and the Khazret Imam mosque (20th c.), which is still in use. Lunch in a local restaurant or a mountain chaikhana on the pass (free). Return to Samarkand, arrival and transfer to the hotel. Rest time. Dinner at the "Samarkand" restaurant or a similar establishment renowned for its delicious shashliks, these skewers of meat grilled over embers that are famous in Uzbek cuisine (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 11

  Samarkand – Tashkent

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Continuation of the guided tours of Samarkand: - The remains of Ulugh Beg's observatory, built in the Middle Ages by the astronomer prince and grandson of Tamerlane. It was here that a star catalog, in which 1018 stars were described, was compiled. - The Afrosiab Museum, whose centerpiece is a 7th-century fresco known as "The Ambassadors." It is a unique work of its kind and one of the few available to archaeologists and historians to study Sogdian painting and art. - The "Khurjum" carpet factory to familiarize yourself with the production of handmade silk carpets. - The "Meros" paper mill, located in the village of Koniguil 8 km from Samarkand, to observe the traditional manufacture of silk paper according to a tradition preserved since the 9th century. Works of art painted on this rare and delicate material are of exceptional finesse. Authentic lunch by the Siab river in the village or similar (free). After the meal, transfer to the train station, boarding the "Afrosiyab" high-speed train №765 (economy class) and departure for Tashkent (dep.: 16:59 / arr.: 19:27). Arrival at Tashkent station, then transfer and check-in at the hotel. Dinner (free) and overnight at the hotel.

• day 12

  Tashkent

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. First discovery of the Uzbek capital during a guided city tour: - Khasti Imam Square, or Kharzat-i-Imam, the religious center of Tashkent, located in the old city with traditional brick houses without windows and closed off by mud walls. This historic complex offers a fascinating dive into the medieval history of Tashkent and houses several notable buildings, including the Barak Khan madrasa, built in the 16th century, the mausoleum of the saint Abou Bakr al-Kaffal Chachi, who was the first imam of the city, the Moyi Moubarak museum-library, the Friday mosque, and the Imam al Bukhari Islamic Institute, where future imams are trained. One of the most precious treasures of the complex is the Quran of Caliph Osman, dated to the 7th century. This ancient manuscript is considered one of the oldest existing copies of the Quran. - Possibility of a walk on the street of the "Gulbozor" district (in Uzbek "makhalla") dotted with art workshops, picturesque shops, and national cuisine restaurants. - Visit of the Koukeldach madrasa, an imposing building still in operation, which serves as a spiritual educational institution. Nearby is the Chorsu bazaar, the largest market in Tashkent, which is a paradise of spices and sweet fruits, with stalls overflowing with mountains of grapes, dried apricots, almonds, and roasted beans. You can also find authentic souvenirs such as "tchapan", traditional coats, ceramics, carved wooden objects, and colorful mattresses used as seats. Lunch at "Bech Kozon", which is undoubtedly the most famous epicenter in the city for the preparation of plov, the national dish made of rice, carrots, beef, raisins, and garlic. Here, you can also watch the preparation of this mouthwatering dish in gigantic cauldrons (free). In the afternoon, continuation of the guided visits: - The Museum of Applied Arts, a true cultural gem, located in the former residence of the Russian diplomat of the time, A. Polovtsev, known for his love of arts and architecture. The interior decor of the residence was created by the best wood and carved and painted stucco craftsmen from all the provinces of Uzbekistan. A beautiful collection of fabrics, traditional embroideries (in Uzbek "suzanis"), antique jewelry, ceramics, and many others. - Panoramic city tour of the "new city": Independence Square with the Independence and Happy Mother monument, the Ezgulik Arch with slender storks, the memorial of the Great Patriotic War; the Monument of Courage, which is the only architectural and artistic complex in Tashkent dedicated to the subject of the 1966 earthquake; the Alisher Navoi opera and ballet theater square and Amir Temur square with the imposing statue of Tamerlane. Then, a pleasant walk along the cobbled and pedestrian Sayilgokh street, popularly known as "Broadway", which offers a relaxing break. Dinner at a "Caravan" restaurant or similar, renowned for its authentic Uzbek cuisine and friendly atmosphere (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 13

  Tashkent – Kokand – Rishtan – Fergana

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Morning transfer to Tashkent station and boarding the train to Kokand (dep.: 07:55 / arr.: 12:16). Arrival and visit of Kokand, which was one of the three powerful khanates of the 19th century, stretching from the Ferghana Valley to Tashkent: - The majestic Urda citadel, a true architectural and historical gem. This palace, the last residence of the khan of Kokand, Khudoyar Khan, is a testament to the grandeur and wealth of the khanate. With its 119 rooms and 7 courtyards, it offers a fascinating glimpse into court life. - The Juma Mosque is another must-see in Kokand. This immense mosque, capable of accommodating up to 10,000 worshippers, is a remarkable example of Central Asian Islamic architecture. - The Dakhmaï Chakhon ("Tomb of the Governors"), a funerary complex that houses the tombs of many governors of Kokand. This place, steeped in history, is a testament to the power and influence of these rulers. - The Modari Khan mausoleum, built in honor of the mother of the ruler of Kokand, is a perfect example of Central Asian Muslim architecture. Its refined decorations and harmonious proportions make it a place of pilgrimage and contemplation. Lunch during the visit in a local chaikhana (free). Drive to Richtan (50 km / 1h drive) passing through the village of Oltiariq to enjoy and discover the country's agricultural traditions (depending on the season): cotton fields, vineyards, beautiful gardens and vegetable patches that adorn the houses of local farmers along the road. Arrival in Richtan, known for its famous blue ceramics worldwide, whose manufacturing methods are based on an ancient tradition and whose patterns have crossed the centuries. - Visit to the ceramic workshop of Rustam Usmanov, a renowned master ceramist, whose blue, green, and turquoise ceramics are reputed to be the most beautiful in the country. Friendly dinner at the master ceramist's home or in a restaurant in Ferghana or similar (free). Drive to Ferghana (60 km / ~1h drive), arrival and transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

• day 14

  Ferghana – Marghilan – Tashkent

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out. Discovery of Ferghana, the "garden city", built during the time of the White Russians on a radial plan (like Saint Petersburg and Tashkent) at the end of the 19th century. - A pleasant walk in the central park with its statue of Al-Farghani, erected in honor of the medieval scholar Al-Farghani, known as Alfraganus. This is where the city's inhabitants come to find some coolness on the hottest days. You can extend the walk by passing by the drama theater, located in the former residence of Russian General M. Skobelev (1899), the Officers' House (1878), the Saint-Alexander-Nevsky chapel (1934), the Orthodox church of Saint-Serge of Radonezh (1952), and other sites. - The central market of Ferghana, the true beating heart of the valley, offers an experience not to be missed for any traveler in search of authenticity. Upon arrival, you will be enveloped by a lively atmosphere, a true kaleidoscope of colors and scents. It is a colorful labyrinth where the stalls overflow with fresh produce: brightly colored vegetables, juicy and fragrant fruits, warm and crispy bread, traditional crafts, etc. Departure for Margilan (20 km / 30 min drive), recognized as the heart of sericulture in Uzbekistan, a millennia-old tradition that has shaped the history and economy of the region. - Visit to the "Yodgorlik" factory, one of the largest and oldest traditional silk factories in Uzbekistan. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to witness all the stages of silk production, from the processing of cocoons to the weaving of sumptuous fabrics. The artisans, guardians of ancestral know-how, will passionately reveal to you the precise and meticulous gestures that transform silkworm cocoons into delicate threads and then into exceptional fabrics. - Possibility of a walk in the famous Kumtepa market (open every Thursday and Sunday), a true oriental bazaar offering a wide choice of goods: fruits, vegetables, traditional clothing, ikat fabrics, etc. This bustling bazaar is a must for those who wish to soak up the authentic atmosphere of the city and discover the riches of local craftsmanship. Lunch in a local chaikhana (free). Road to Tashkent (250 km / ~4h drive) via the picturesque Kamchik Pass (2268 m altitude). On the way, a few stops to enjoy the extraordinary landscapes and take photos. At the end of the day, arrival in Tashkent, transfer and check-in at the hotel. Rest time. To end your trip in style, a farewell dinner in a "Caravan" restaurant or similar, renowned for its authentic Uzbek cuisine and friendly atmosphere (free). Overnight at the hotel.

• day 15

  Tashkent – Istanbul – France

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Check-in before noon. Transfer to Tashkent International Airport and return flight.