Uzbekistan by Bike
15 Days Starting in Tashkent and ending in
Visiting: Uzbekistan
Tour Overview
This amazing, all encompassing journey explores Uzbekistan by bike and discovers at handle bar level this friendly land. Without a doubt cycling is one of the finest ways to explore a country and to appreciate the contrasting desert and mountain landscapes that characterise this fascinating region. Pedalling at a steady pace we journey across this vast and impressive land. Spend nights in yurts, hotels and traditional homestay/guesthouse. Discover the traditional way of life of the local people in the Nurata Mountains, and explore dramatic gorges, valleys and lakes. Our complete service includes comfortable geared bikes and backup vehicle. Discover Samarkand, the grand capital of the conqueror Tamerlane, and admire the grace of the blue-tiled Registan. Explore Bukhara, whose ancient city centre is a maze of mud-walled homes, mosques and stone bazaars.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Tashkent Uzbekistan, Sightseeing
On arrival into Tashkent you will be met and transferred to the group hotel. There will be a city sightseeing tour of Tashkent (3-4 hrs) plus lunch - the tour start time will depend on arrival time of the participants. Your guide will conduct a trip briefing in the hotel lobby in the evening before you all enjoy a group welcome dinner.
Overnight: Gabrielle International Hotel or similar
Day 2 : Transfer To Nevich, Cycling
Transfer from Tashkent to the mountain village of Nevich (1050m), and commence cycling. We will cycle through the mountain villages of Nevich, Sanginek, Sukok and Zarkent, where many grape vines grow. We can taste wine in one of the local's houses.
Accommodation: Kumyshkan guesthouse (1300m).
Driving: 70km; 1.5hrs.
Cycling: 35km; -100m/+250m/-100m/+200m; Asphalt 80%, dirt road 20%.
Day 3 : Kumyshkan Village To Karamanas Village
Today we will cycle from Kumyshkan village to Karamanas village near Ugam-Chatkal National Park. The road passes through the picturesque villages around the Surenata ridge. Along the way we will visit the unique Physics-Sun Heliocomplex (Solar Furnace) located in Changi village. Built in the 1980s, the complex still amazes with its fantastic space view, reminiscent of a launch pad or alien station. Cycling along the road there are great views of the mountains and surroundings. If you wish to extend the cycle, this route can be further extended by 30km to Gazalkent. Transfer by bus to the South-Western Tien-Shan mountains, to our hotel on the shore of the Charvak water reservoir (1020 m).
Accommodation: Avenue Park Hotel or similar.
Cycling: 40km; -730m/+100m; Asphalt 90%, dirt road 10%. Optional 30km to Gazalkent.
Driving: 70km, 1.5hrs.
Day 4 : Transfer To Beldersay, Cycling
This morning, we transfer by bus to Beldersay, and commence cycling back to our hotel at Charvak water reservoir. After lunch at the hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure. There is an optional walk to the Charvak water reservoir.
Accommodation: Avenue Park Hotel or similar.
Driving: 30km; 30min.
Cycling: 30km, 2-3hrs.
Day 5 : Cycling To Charvak, Transfer To Tashkent
Early start at around 8.00am. The cycling route runs along the Charvak mountain reservoir to the village of Nanai; crossing the bridges of the Chatkal, Koksu and Pskem rivers. Then ascend up to Sijak village, with magnificent views at the upper point of the route above the water reservoir, followed by a spectacular descent to the town of Charvak. The panoramic scenery of the Charvak water reservoir and mountains of the South-Western Tien-Shan during the ride will be unforgettable. Lunch will be at a traditional cafe. Afterwards we will transfer to Tashkent by vehicle.
Overnight: Gabrielle International Hotel or similar
Driving: 70km, 1.5hrs.
Cycling: 66 km, -140m/+420m/-510m; Asphalt 90%, dirt road 10%.
Day 6 : Transfer To Zaamin National Park, Cycling
After breakfast we leave the city and drive out towards Zaamin National Park. We have lunch in Zaamin village. Afterwards, we will cycle from Zaamin reservoir in the direction of the Turkestan ridge to Zaamin National Park, through green meadows with a variety of mountain flowers and juniper forest. This rural area is sparsely populated, its only inhabitants being a few fishermen and shepherds. This fertile area is surrounded by peaks climbing up to 3500m so we’ll have an impressive backdrop to our ride. If the participants wish, this route can be extended by a further 10-20km.
Overnight: Uryuklisay Hotel (1820m) or similar
Driving: 220km, 4hrs
Cycling: 30km; -370m/+460m; Asphalt 70%, dirt road 30%.
Day 7 : Cycle Suffa Plateau To Bakhmal Village, Transfer To Jizzakh
Following breakfast we transfer 10km (+630m) up to the Suffa plateau, at an altitude of 2450m. Cycling starts from the unique International Observatory "Suffa", where the route passes through the Zaamin Mountain-Juniper National Reserve to Bakhmal village. We will travel through the green foothills of the Northern slopes of the Turkestan range, enjoy the mountain peaks, crowned with snow, with the highest peak – Shau-Kartau at 4040m and the beautiful Chor-Tanga canyon. Transfer by vehicle to Jizzakh.
Overnight: Grand Hotel Uzbekistan or similar
Driving: 85km, 2hrs
Cycling: 55 km; +900m/-1940m; Asphalt 20%, dirt road 80%.
Day 8 : Transfer To Ortacheku Rocks, Cycle To Asmansay
This morning, we transfer to the impressive towering outcrops of the Ortacheku Rocks. From there, we get on our bikes and cycle to our overnight accommodation at the Asmansay yurt camp. After lunch in the yurt camp; the remainder of the day is at leisure to rest, swim in the pool, or go for an evening stroll in the mountains.
Overnight: Yurt camp
Driving: 50km, 40min
Cycling: 30km, +730m/-400m; Asphalt 30%, dirt road 70%.
Day 9 : Cycle To Hayat Village
This morning we set off for the picturesque village of Hayat. The route will take us along the picturesque Nuratau Ridge before descending into the traditional stone housed village of Yangikishlak. From Yangikishlak the trail continues over a series of rolling hills and grasslands. After stopping for a healthy lunch and quick rest, we reach the asphalt road which leads us most of the way to our overnight destination of Hayat Village, with only the final 6km or so on dirt trails. In the evening, we can take a walk to see Severtsov's sheep - they are bred and protected in Nurata National Reserve.
Overnight: Hayat traditional homestay (960m).
Cycling: 65km; -800m/+400m; Asphalt 80%, dirt road 20%.
Day 10 : Cycle To Temir Kovuk Village
Today is our final day of riding. where we will cycle to Temir Kovuk village. Along the way we can take a detour (5km from the main road; +180m/-180m) and visit the exotic village of Madzerum. Here you can see Biota Orientalis - the largest of the millennial trees of the Nurata Natural Reserve aged from 1100 to 1500 years; plus visit the nearby ruins of a mosque and ancient village. Afterwards, we continue our last cycling section along the Nuratau ridge to Temir Kovuk village. At day's end we will pack up our bicycles and transfer by vehicle to the Temir Kovuk Safari yurt camp.
Overnight: Yurt camp
Driving: 40km
Cycling: 56km; -990m/+300m; Asphalt 70%, dirt road 30%.
Day 11 : Lake Aydarkul, Transfer To Bukhara
Enjoy a relaxing swim and lunch at Lake Aydarkul. In the afternoon we will tour the ancient fortress of Alexander the Great. Afterwards we will transfer to Bukhara.
Overnight: Malika Bukhara Hotel or similar
Driving: 270km.
Day 12 : Sightseeing In Bukhara
Today we have a full day sightseeing tour in Bukhara, which is a city-museum with over 140 architectural monuments, boasting a vibrant history. The region around Bukhara has been continually inhabited for at least five millennia, and the city has existed for approximately half that time. The UNESCO listed old city centre evokes the many centuries of traders and travellers who’ve passed through on their way between the Mediterranean and China. This richly historic city was a major centre of trade, scholarship, culture, and religion, succumbed to Ghengis Khan and Tamerlane the Turco-Mongol conqueror, was the last capital of the Emirate of Bukhara before being besieged by the Red Army during the Russian Civil War. We spend the day exploring this fascinating Silk Road city including at its heart the historic Lyabi Khauz architectural complex with the oldest reflection pool in Central Asia, surrounded by medieval buildings including the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah and Khanaka with its facade of intrinsic mosaics. We also visit the Poi Kalyan Complex which includes the 48m tall Kalyan Minaret which has come to symbolise the city, and the Kalyan Mosque with 288 domes covering intricate galleries. We will also explore the Samanid’s Mausoleum, the Ark Citadel, and Chor-Minor - the original building of four minarets and oldest residence of the Emirs.
Overnight: Malika Bukhara Hotel or similar
Day 13 : Sightseeing In Samarkand
Today we will drive to Samarkand and spend the day sightseeing. We will visit Registan Square, considered one of the wonders of the ancient world. Being the "heart" of Samarkand and city’s main square it is enclosed by three spectacular madrassah dating back to 1400s with quite inner courtyards. These huge buildings adorned with domes and minarets are intricately laid in charming azure blue-glazed tiles. We will also visit the grandiose Cathedral Mosque Bibi-Khanum, and Gur-Emir Mausoleum – the resting place of Timurid royal family.
Overnight: Ideal Hotel or similar
Driving: 270km, 4hrs
Day 14 : Samarkand Sightseeing, Transfer To Tashkent
After breakfast, we visit the remains of the meridian quadrant of Ulugh Beg’s observatory, which huge size enabled Samarkand astronomers to produce the most accurate calibration of the stars’ position. Their outstanding body of work comprised "Zidj -e - Kuragoni", astronomic tables featuring the most exact coordinates of 1018 stars; Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, resting place of princesses and princes of Timurid dynasty, as well as aristocracy of the that period boasting unique architectural masterpieces of intricate tile patterns which turn this sanctuary into a real heaven of green turquoise and blue azure colours. We will also visit the colourful stalls of Siab Bazaar. After lunch, we drive to Tashkent.
Overnight: Gabrielle International Hotel or similar
Driving: 350km, 5hrs
Day 15 : In Tashkent, Trip Concludes
Today is departure day. After breakfast, you will be provided a transfer to the airport where your trip concludes.
What's Included
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Accommodation
10 nights hotel -
14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners
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Comfortable hotels on twin share basis
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Yurt camp on multi-share basis (no single accommodation possible)
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Simple homestay/guesthouse on multi-share basis (no single accommodation possible)
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Local English-speaking guide; and local cycling guide/mechanic on the cycling days
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Arrival & departure airport transfers in Tashkent
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Private transport throughout & support vehicle during cycling
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Mountain bike and cycling helmet
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Limited number of e-bikes can be hired locally (must be booked in advance & additional cost applies)
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Entrance fees to museums and monuments
What's Not Included
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Bike Helmet (compulsory)
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Still/video camera fees at monuments
Accommodation
10 nights hotel
Hotels - a mixture of western style hotels which are well located to ensure we make the most of our time. All accommodation will be on a twin-share basis with private bathroom facilities. All rooms have private facilities, however please bear in mind that plumbing can at times be dubious, even in the best hotels. If you have a problem, advise your group leader, or floor attendant.
Yurt camp - accommodation will be on a multi-share basis. The camps have traditionally decorated yurts, and come with four or six single beds in each (all bed linen, blankets and towels supplied). There is a communal ablution block with hand-washing basins, showers, and toilets in the camp. Meals are served in the on-site communal dining area. Note - no single supplement is possible for these 2 nights.
Homestay/guesthouse - the two night homestay & guesthouse will be multishare. Homestays are where a local family will open their home providing a wonderful insight into the local culture. Note - no single supplement is possible for these 2 nights.
Hayat traditional homestay - Note that each house has 2-3 rooms of around 6sqm to 20sqm, which can accommodate 2-6 guests. There are no beds in these houses, and by tradition the local people sleep on special mattresses on the floor. The mattress is laid out before sleeping, and rolled up in the morning and laid up at one of the walls of the room. Bedding is provided for each guest as follows: mattress, bed sheets, blankets, pillows, towels. The toilet and shower are located outside in the yard. A garden with fruit trees is attached to each house. Food is prepared on firewood in special fireplaces, and bread (flat round national bread) is prepared in special earthenware stoves or tandyrs. Meals are prepared from traditional products by the hostess of the house. Fruits and vegetables are usually sourced from their own garden.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc.
Grading
These adventures involve cycling for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health.
Suggested preparation; 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. This can include swimming, jogging, hard walking or cycling - good cardiovascular exercise. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week for three months prior to departure is advised.
Check out our Q&As
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
1 Select your preferred date
Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 18, 2024 - Oct 02, 2024Sunday - Sunday
May 04, 2025 - May 18, 2025Sunday - Sunday
Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 17, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.