DESERtS & Domes:
UZBEKISTAN & turkmenistan Adventure

This morning we dive deeper into Samarkand’s history and culture. We begin at the Afrosiab Museum and nearby archaeological site, which reveal the ancient roots of the city long before the Timurid era. Then we visit the tomb of Saint Daniel, a unique pilgrimage site venerated by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike.

Later, we explore the Khujum carpet factory and a silk paper workshop, where age-old crafts are preserved and practiced with pride. Finally, we stroll through the bustling Siab Bazaar, a lively market brimming with spices, dried fruits, nuts, and handicrafts – the perfect place to experience the flavors and energy of modern Samarkand.

Return to the hotel in the afternoon. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Samarkand.

After breakfast we transfer to the railway station and take a morning train across the steppe to Bukhara (09:55–11:38). On arrival, we begin our exploration of the Old Town - one of the most atmospheric and best-preserved medieval cities in Central Asia. Our walk starts at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a lively plaza shaded by old mulberry trees and surrounded by beautiful madrasas and cozy teahouses. Here we see the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa and Kukeldash Madrasa, two fine examples of Islamic architecture. We continue through the ancient trading domes (Toqi) - Toki Zargaron, Toki Telpak Furushon, and Toki Sarrafon — where merchants once sold jewelry, silk, and coins. Today these domes are filled with local crafts, carpets, and souvenirs. We end the day with a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes of the Old Town, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of Bukhara at sunset. Overnight in Bukhara.

After breakfast, we continue discovering the treasures of Bukhara. We visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, a true masterpiece of early Islamic architecture, and the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, connected to the legend of the Prophet Job. Then we explore the local bazaar, full of life, colors, and aromas. Next, we head to the Bolo-Hauz Mosque, famous for its elegant wooden pillars reflected in the pool, before entering the mighty Ark Citadel, the former residence of Bukhara’s emirs, with its old Zindan prison. We finish our sightseeing at the majestic Po-i-Kalyan Complex, the spiritual heart of Bukhara, with its impressive minaret, madrasa, and mosque - a perfect finale to our journey through this timeless city.

In the evening, we are welcomed into a traditional local home for an authentic cultural experience. Here we’ll take part in a master class on cooking plov, Uzbekistan’s most famous dish, learning its secrets step by step. Afterward, we’ll share a delicious dinner with the family, enjoying warm hospitality and stories of local life. Overnight at the hotel.

Today we say farewell to Uzbekistan and cross the Farab land border into Turkmenistan. After completing border formalities, we continue to the ancient city of Merv (UNESCO World Heritage site), once one of the largest and most splendid cities on the Silk Road. We explore its sprawling historical park: the monumental Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the crumbling mudbrick citadels of Erk Gala and Gyaur Gala, the mysterious Keshk fortresses, and the Muhammed ibn Zaid Mausoleum. Each ruin tells a story of empires risen and fallen.

In the late afternoon we drive on to Mary, a modern city built near the ruins. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast we take a short tour of Mary, visiting its lively Central Bazaar, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the elegant Gurbanguly Haji Mosque. Then we set off westward toward Ashgabat. Along the way we stop at the atmospheric ruins of the Anau Mosque and visit the renowned Ahalteke horse stables, home to the legendary Akhal-Teke breed, prized for their speed and beauty. By evening we arrive in Ashgabat, check into the hotel, and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Ashgabat.

Today we discover the fascinating capital of Turkmenistan, a city of marble avenues, grand monuments, and hidden history. Highlights include the striking Ertogrul Ghazi Mosque, Independence Park, the Rukhnama Monument, and the gleaming Neutrality Arch. We’ll also admire the statue of national poet Magtymguly, before venturing out to Old Nisa,
a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the seat of the mighty Parthian Empire.
To conclude, we visit the impressive Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum, the largest mosque in Central Asia. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Ashgabat.

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out before 12:00. Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight — carrying with you warm memories and vivid impressions of your unforgettable journey through Central Asia.