2 Days Yurt Camp from Bukhara to Samarkand Self-Guided Tour

Bukhara , Uzbekistan

2 Days Yurt Camp from Bukhara to Samarkand Self-Guided Tour

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About this experience

This tour is the best when travelers travel between Bukhara and Samarkand and want to discover and see the diverse landscape of Uzbekistan, sleep in a traditional yurt, and experience the nomadic culture firsthand. Travelers start the tour from Samarkand, see Alexander’s Fort in Nurata, drive to Lake Aidarkul, and if the weather permits can swim and drive to yurt camp for overnight.
All transfers, including hotel pick-up and drop-off
Camel ride in the desert and nomadic music around campfire
Experience the nomadic lifestyle staying in a yurt
Discover the natural beauty of Uzbekistan at your own pace

Available options

2 Days Yurt Camp from Bukhara to Samarkand Self-Guided Tour

Pickup included

What's included

All transfers, including hotel pick-up and drop-off

Dinner

Breakfast

What's not included

English guide

Gratuities

Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Yurt camp opens from the end of March to late October

It is possible to start the tour from Samarkand and finish in Bukhara

Yurts have proper beds with a bit hard mattresses and pillows. An early spring and late fall the desert can get pretty cold at night, so travelers supplied with a pile of nice warm blankets. Inside the yurt there are some basic amenities like an electric wall lamp (although it is still recommended bringing a personal torch) and a rubbish bin.

Please note: First part of the journey is a good road. In general it is a long and shaky ride to the Yurt Camp even so it is asphalt road but condition of the road is not good.

When travelers visit Chashma Spring complex there is a small mosque if you want to enter both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing tight, revealing, or transparent clothing. Women should cover their hair with a headscarf or shawl when they enter to holy places

Overnight in Yurt Camp (2 people per yurt, shared bathroom facilities)

If it is hot do not forget to put on sun sunscreen before going to visiting Chashma Spring complex (and just above the complex is Alexander’s Fort)

About Bukhara

Bukhara is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in Central Asia, renowned for its rich history, stunning Islamic architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. This ancient Silk Road city offers a unique glimpse into Uzbekistan's past, with over 140 architectural monuments dating back over a millennium.

Top Attractions

Po-i-Kalyan Complex

The Po-i-Kalyan Complex is the heart of Bukhara's historic center, featuring the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i Arab Madrasah. This UNESCO-listed site is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Ark of Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is a massive fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara's rulers for centuries. It houses museums and historic buildings within its walls.

Historical 1 hour 5,000 UZS

Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble

The Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble is a picturesque complex centered around a large pond (hauz) and surrounded by madrasahs, mosques, and tea houses. It's a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour Free

Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum

This mausoleum is said to be built around a spring that appeared miraculously when the prophet Job (Ayub) touched the ground with his staff. It's a peaceful spot with beautiful tile work.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Trade Domes

Bukhara's trade domes, such as the Toki Zargaron (Jewelers' Dome), Toki Telpak Furushon (Hatsellers' Dome), and Toki Sarrofon (Money Changers' Dome), are a testament to the city's rich trading history. These domes once housed bustling markets and still retain their historic charm.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices, often served at celebrations and gatherings

Main Dish Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Lagman

A hearty noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth

Main Dish Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Samsa

Baked pastries filled with meat, pumpkin, or potatoes

Snack Varies by filling, often contains meat

Shurpa

A flavorful soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices

Soup Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Popular Activities

Camel trekking Sandboarding Hiking Tea house visits Spas and hammams Reading in parks Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's historic sites. The temperatures are comfortable, and the crowds are manageable.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Uzbek
Widely spoken: Russian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Time Zone

GMT+5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bukhara is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators
• Negotiate taxi fares in advance
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Bukhara International Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Bukhara Railway Station

By bus

Bukhara Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Bukhara. They are affordable and connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center Modern Bukhara

Day trips

Vobkent

30 km from Bukhara • Half day to full day

Vobkent is a small town known for its historic mosque and mausoleum, offering a glimpse into the region's Islamic heritage.

Gijduvan

40 km from Bukhara • Full day

Gijduvan is famous for its ceramics and traditional pottery workshops, offering a hands-on experience in this ancient craft.

Kyzylkum Desert

100 km from Bukhara • Overnight

The Kyzylkum Desert offers a unique desert experience with opportunities for camel trekking, stargazing, and exploring the vast sand dunes.

Festivals

International Festival of Classical Music • September Siyavushbek Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Po-i-Kalyan Complex early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
Try the local plov at a traditional chaikhana for an authentic experience
Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars, as prices are often inflated for tourists
Carry small change for bus rides, taxis, and small purchases
Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your interactions with locals