Kolkhoz: Private visit to the cotton farmers' village
Active
10h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This circuit is unique and exceptional in several respects:
You discover a former kolkhoz - Soviet collective farm. You walk through the cotton fields with the possibility of assisting in the work.
You meet the ex-kolkhozians, simple village people but with a heart full of warmth. You discover local life in rural areas.
You share pleasant moments with them during a lunch together.
You walk along the banks of the Zeravchan River and discover its dry basin allowing you to understand the water problems in Central Asia.
You visit fish and bee farms taking advantage of local production.
For French-speaking travelers, we can organize a meeting with students who are learning French.
You can discover seasonal activities depending on the season (April-May) silkworm breeding, (September) cotton picking etc.
Available options
Excursion to an ex-Kolkhoz
Pickup included
Option with overnight stay at home
Guest house with locals: An “Uzbek living” experience in the host family which offers a few beds for the night.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
The accompanying guide speaking French or English;
Meals in a family setting;
Detailed itinerary
1
On the way, you can visit the Payshanba Bazar market. This typical market takes place every Thursday between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. It is intended for the sale of everything: livestock, clothing, food. This visit which allows you to encounter authentic Uzbekistan will remain engraved in your memory for a moment.
2
You arrive at the village around 10 a.m., meeting the family around welcome tea (1 hour).
You walk towards the Zeravchan river, the waters of which are entirely used for irrigation. You discover the dry basin and the crops grown in the riverbed, including a fish farm. This walk will allow you to discover the scale of the water problem in Central Asia, one of the driest areas on the planet. (4.5 km on foot, 2h30)
Lunch at “Palov”, the traditional Uzbek dish, at a local’s home (2 hours).
You go to cotton fields as far as the eye can see. Cotton is sown in April and it flowers in early June. The harvest is done in September and October. Thus, you discover the cotton plantations in their evolving phase depending on the month of visit. You stop at a beekeeper who produces cotton honey. You discover its farm and its cotton honey (2.5 km on foot, 2h30). Return to Samarkand at the end of the day.
3
A school in the countryside that still teaches French as a foreign language. You can take a tour and meet the students in this village school. You must notify the school authority of your visit so that your visit does not disrupt the running of classes. The visit is only by permission of the school administration and must be booked in advance.
What's not included
Personal expenses;
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, known for its rich history and stunning Islamic architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with landmarks that reflect the city's status as a hub on the ancient Silk Road.
Top Attractions
Registan Square
Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand, featuring three stunning madrasahs (Islamic schools) with intricate tile work and towering minarets. It's one of the most iconic sights in Central Asia.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
This mausoleum is the burial place of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. It's known for its stunning blue tile work and intricate design.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
This ancient necropolis is a collection of stunning mausoleums and tombs, known for their intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere. It's a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
This grand mosque was built by Timur in honor of his favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym. It's one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world and features stunning architecture and tile work.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Siab Bazaar
This bustling bazaar is a great place to experience local life and sample traditional Uzbek food. It's a sensory overload with its colors, smells, and sounds.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, budget for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plov
Plov is a rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, and onions. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is often served at celebrations.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Lagman
Lagman is a noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for colder weather.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Samsa
Samsa are baked pastries filled with meat, onions, and spices. They're a popular street food and are often sold at bazaars.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Non
Non is a traditional Uzbek bread, often baked in a tandoor oven. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is served with most meals.
Bread
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Exploring historic sites
Horseback riding
Visiting tea houses
Enjoying a traditional hammam (bathhouse)
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best weather for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Uzbek
- Widely spoken: Russian
- English: Limited
Currency
Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
Time Zone
UTC+5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Samarkand is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets and scams
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
Getting there
By air
- Samarkand International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Samarkand Railway Station
By bus
Samarkand Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are often crowded but are a good way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Afrosiab
Kuk-Saroy
Day trips
Shakhrisabz
90 km from Samarkand • Full day
Shakhrisabz is a historic city known for its stunning architecture and ties to Timur (Tamerlane). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with several impressive ruins and monuments.
Penjikent
120 km from Samarkand • Full day
Penjikent is a charming town in Tajikistan, known for its historic ruins and natural beauty. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and the outdoors.
Ulugbek's Observatory
5 km from Samarkand • Half day
Ulugbek's Observatory is a historic site dedicated to the astronomical work of Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of astronomy and science in Central Asia.
Festivals
Silk and Spices Festival • May
Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the city's many historic sites
- Visit the bazaars early in the morning for the best selection and atmosphere
- Try local specialties like plov, lagman, and samsa at traditional restaurants and street food stalls
- Consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay for a more local and authentic experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
