2 Day Aydar Lake Yurt Camping Tour from Samarkand
Active
2d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the magic of camping in the Kyzylkum Desert near Aydar Lake. Enjoy a unique adventure with yurt camping, camel riding, and an unforgettable night under the open desert sky.
Available options
With Drop-off to Bukhara
Accommodation: Traditional Yurt Camping<br/>Additional Activities : Camel Riding, Boat Renting.<br/>Class of services: Transportation, Hotel Pickup from Samarkand and Drop-off to Bukhara, Yurt Camping Experience<br/>Duration: 2 days: Time is flexible and depends on your prefferance. Usually it takes 2 days and 1 night.<br/>Meals: Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast <br/>Route: Day 1: Transfer from Samarkand to Aydar Lake Yurt Camping, overnight in Yurts.
Day 2: Transfer from Yurt Camping to Bukhara<br/>Vehicle: Car with AC<br/>Pickup included
With Drop-off to Samarkand
Accommodations: Traditional Yurt Camping.<br/>Additional Activities: Camel Riding,
Boat Renting.<br/>Class of service: Transportation, Hotel Pickup from Samarkand and Drop-off back to Hotel in Samarkand, Yurt Camping Experience.<br/>Duration: 2 days: Time is flexible and depends on your prefferance. Usually it takes 2 days and 1 night.<br/>Meals: Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast<br/>Route: Day 1: Transfer from Samarkand to Yurt Camping, overnight in Yurts.
Day 2: Transfer from Yurts back to Samarkand<br/>Vehicle: Car with AC<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pickup and Drop off
Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Accommodation in Yurts
Meals
Detailed itinerary
1
Day 1:
Depart from Samarkand and head to Aydar Lake.
Arrive at the Yurt Camp, check-in and rest.
Enjoy a walk by the lake and take in the desert scenery.
Dinner at the camp followed by a campfire gathering with live music.
Overnight in traditional yurts.
2
Day 2:
Breakfast at the yurt camp.
Free time to relax or walk near the lake.
Lunch near the lake.
Depart for Nurata, visit Alexander the Great’s fortress ruins.
Continue the drive to Bukhara or Samarkand for drop-off.
What's not included
Entry Fees
Extra Meals
Camel riding
Boat renting
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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
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