A Cultural Odyssey from Samarkand to Khiva

Ultimate Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan

13 Days

From $5,695

Level 3

Moderate

{"trip":{"TripID":10546,"Trip_Code":"ULTUZBEK","Trip_Name":"Ultimate Uzbekistan","TripYear":"2024","BrandName":"Wilderness Travel","BrandID":1,"Trip_Tag_Line":"see custom fields","Start_Location":"Tashkent, Uzbekistan","End_Location":"Tashkent, Uzbekistan","Number_Days":13,"Number_Nights":12,"DisplayOnWeb":true,"Book_On_Web":true,"Featured":false,"SpecialEvent":false,"BestSeller":false,"Short_Description":"<p>Join our Trip Leader extraordinaire Hashmat Singh to discover Uzbekistan's legendary Silk Road settings, including the majestic architectural ensemble of Samarkand's 15th century Registan Square, the atmospheric bazaars of Bukhara, and the lost-in-time city of Khiva, a sand-colored mirage in the desert. Along the way, we'll sip tea in <em>chaikhanas<\/em> (teahouses), meet traditional artisans, and roam the bustling markets. Mid-trip, we'll take a two-day break from city life at a village guesthouse in the Nurata Mountains, with time to stretch our legs on hill walks and enjoy a cooking class. The mixture of Silk Road heritage, Soviet legacy, and distinctive Uzbek culture in this fabled land is fascinating, and the welcome is truly heartfelt.<\/p>","Long_Description":"<p><\/p>","ActivityHighlight":"Overland travel with walking tours, cultural explorations","TripType":"Small Group Adventure","HeaderImage":"","HeaderImageAltTag":"","ThumbnailImage":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/thumb-ULTUZBEK-registan-samarkand-mosque-sunset-visit.jpg","MapImage":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/ultuzbek-map.jpeg","MapImageAltTag":"","FloatingImage":"","VideoLink":"","GroupSize":"","tripURL":"www.wildernesstravel.com\/trip\/\/Uzbekistan\/cultural-hiking-bukhara-samarkand-tajikistan-tour","ThisYear_Year":"2023","ThisYear_PriceDetails":"<p>$5,695 (9-12 members)<br>$5,895 (4-8 members)<\/p>","ThisYear_PriceDetails2":"<p>Single supplement: $495 (singles will share rooms for 2 nights in Nurata Mountains)<br \/>Internal airfare: $160 (subject to change)<\/p>","Price":"5695","SingleSupplementPrice1":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2":"0","SingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","SingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","AirPrice":"0","AirPriceCaption":"","FeePrice1":"0","FeePrice2":"0","FeePrice3":"0","FeeName1":"","FeeName2":"","FeeName3":"","ShowNextYearsPrice":true,"NextYear_Year":"2024","NextYear_PriceDetails":"$5,695 (9-12 members)<br>\n$5,895 (4-8 members)<br><p><\/p>","NextYear_PriceDetails2":"Single supplement: $495 (singles will share rooms for 2 nights in Nurata Mountains)<br>\nInternal airfare: $175 (subject to change)<p><\/p>","PriceNextYear":"5695","SingleSupplementPrice1NextYear":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2NextYear":"0","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","NextYearAirPriceCaption":"","AirPriceNextYear":"0","NextYearFeePrice1":"0","NextYearFeePrice2":"0","NextYearFeePrice3":"0","NextYearFeeName1":"","NextYearFeeName2":"","NextYearFeeName3":"","TripSavings":false,"TripSavingsDescription":"<p><\/p>","VariablePricing":false,"PricingNoteTitle":"<p><\/p>","PricingNotes":"<p><\/p>","NewTrip":true,"MinAge":0,"TripRatingID":7,"TripRatingName":"3","TravelFromDate":"2022-01-01","TravelToDate":"2050-12-31","BookFromDate":"2022-01-01","BookToDate":"2050-12-31","EventID":20,"EventName":"","AccountingGroup":"Asia","DepositRule":2,"DepositAmt":"600","FinalDays":90,"AutoConfirm":false,"AutoConfirmAmount":"0","PrivateAvailable":true,"OperationMonths":"","AccmRating":""},"itinerary":[{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":1,"Headline":"Tashkent \/ Khast Imam Square","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Arrive in Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan, the largest city in Central Asia, where you&apos;ll be met for a transfer to our hotel. Most flights arrive in the early morning, so you&apos;ll have time to rest up at the hotel before meeting the group for lunch at a local restaurant. The city is a modern metropolis that blends historic buildings and international business life. Due to the 1966 earthquake that leveled the city and the consequent Soviet-era rebuilding, little remains of old Tashkent, but Khast Imam Square is fascinating and has been rebuilt to include a new mosque with traditional architectural elements. One of the attractions in the square is the small Muyi Mubarak Library, which holds the oldest Quran in the world. We&apos;ll have our trip briefing and Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant, with overnight at the Lotte Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Fly to Termez \/ Kara Tepe \/ Mausoleum of Hakim at-Termizi \/ Kampyr-Tepe","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A morning flight brings us to Termez, the southernmost city in Uzbekistan, located on the Amu Darya River near the border with Afghanistan. We&apos;ll check into our hotel and have lunch. Few travelers venture to off-the-beaten-path Termez but it has some wonderful archaeological sites. In the afternoon, we visit fascinating Fayaz-Tepe, the ruins of an ancient rock-cut Buddhist monastery and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A shepherd discovered Fayaz-Tepe in 1968, and Uzbekistan&apos;s Soviet government excavated it soon afterward. We&apos;ll also see the beautifully tiled Mausoleum of Hakim at-Termizi, Termez&apos; holiest site, a 15th century complex set on a hill overlooking the Amu Darya River. Further outside Termez, we visit the 4th century fortress-ruins of Kampyr-Tepe, another UNESCO site. Archaeologists associate the fortress with the legendary Alexandria on the Oxus, a city founded in the 4th century BC in the wake of the campaigns of Alexander the Great. Overnight at the Meridian Hotel in Termez.\r\n\r\nApproximate Flying Details: 1 hour and 15 minutes","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Drive to Shahrisabz \/ Samarkand","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A drive along and beside the Pamir Mountains brings us to Shahrisabz, a small Uzbek town famed as the birthplace of Timur (or Tamerlane), the infamous Turco-Mongol conqueror and the founder of the Timurid Empire in Persia and Central Asia. Born in 1336 AD, Timur is considered one of the greatest nomadic rulers of all time, leading his military all over Asia. After lunch, we&apos;ll explore Shahrisabz&apos; monuments, including the blue-domed Kok Gumbaz Masjid, built in 1434, and the ruins of the once-towering 14th century Aq Saray Palace, Timur&apos;s summer home. In the late afternoon, we&apos;ll continue through the cotton plantations of the Zerafshan Valley to Samarkand, with dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at hotel.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 5 hours to Shahrisabz;&nbsp;2 hours to Samarkand","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Samarkand","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"The southern Uzbek city of Samarkand has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. It is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Central Asia and was a key strategic trading post on the ancient Silk Road. &nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe&apos;ll have two full days here, beginning with a visit to the Registan, the city&apos;s 15th century public square. Built by Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur, the majestic Registan (&ldquo;Place of Sand&rdquo;) is an early example of Islamic urban planning and is famed for its stunning azure mosaics. It was built as a place where the local people could gather to hear royal news and see justice administered. Three madrasas (religious schools) survive, facing into the central courtyard, with two of them opening into internal courtyards that now house small retail shops tucked into the massive walls. They are elaborately adorned with glazed clay tiles. This masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.\r\n\r\nAt the Sha-i-Zinda, an incredible avenue of tiled mausoleums, we&apos;ll be surrounded by what many consider the most amazing collection of tilework in the Muslim world. We&apos;ll then head up a hill above Samarkand to visit the ruins of the 15th century Ulugbek Observatory, one of the important observatories in the world during the Middle Ages. It was built by Ulugbek, who was not only a Timurid sultan but also an astronomer and mathematician. At the Guri Emir Mausoleum, we visit the tomb of the great ruler Timur, housed in a restored octahedral building crowned by an azure fluted dome. On our first evening we&apos;re in Samarkand, we&apos;ll watch the light show at the Registan, a dazzling display of lasers reflecting on the colorful facades. Overnights at hotel. each day","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"The Nurata Mountains \/ Ukhum Village","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"For a short break from Uzbekistan&apos;s city life, we&apos;ll drive out into the dry and rocky Nurata Mountans, stretched out between Kyzyl Kum Desert on the west and barren steppe on the east. In these low mountains, traditional villages dot the landscape amid rolling fields and orchards. On arrival in the village of Ukhum, we&apos;ll have a late lunch at our guesthouse, then take a tree-shaded walk up the valley to an ancient petroglyph site. Our local guide will introduce us to the history and culture of Nurata&apos;s villages. As we walk along the Ukhum River, we may pass shepherds and summer grazing grounds. Part of the Nurata Mountains were set aside as a nature reserve in 1975 to protect the endemic Severtzov sheep. The reserve is also home to wild boars, foxes, wolves, porcupines, and badgers.\r\n\r\nWe will be hosted for two nights in a stone-built guesthouse with simple rooms and attached shared bathrooms. The people of these mountains plant and grow their own vegetables, bake bread, and keep chickens and a few head of livestock. Our meals will be simple and may include delicious homemade yogurt and cheese, garden fruits, jams, and local eggs. There is no internet in the Nurata Mountains, so we&apos;ll enjoy an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the guesthouse&apos;s garden amid the shade of mulberry, walnut, and apricot trees. Overnight at guesthouse.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 5 hours\r\nApproximate Hiking Details: 5 miles, 2-3 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"The Nurata Mountains \/ Ukhum Village to Hayat Village","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A hike starting from our village brings us along a gently meandering trail that leads to the top of a pass and down to the neighboring village of Hayat in an adjacent valley. The views from the ridgetop are fantastic, and there&apos;s an abandoned fortress to visit along the way. We&apos;ll have lunch in Hayat,&nbsp;then hike back to Ukhum village or return by road. In the afternoon, we&apos;ll watch or take part in a cooking class in a local home, followed by a home-cooked dinner. Overnight at guesthouse.\r\n\r\nApproximate Hiking Details: 6-7 miles, 4 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Malik Caravansary \/ Gijduvan Pottery \/ Bukhara","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"On our drive to Bukhara today, we visit Malik Sardoba, one of the 11th century water cisterns that were used for water storage in the desert. These cisterns provided an oasis for Silk Road caravans and their camels as they crossed the desert. Our next stop is the town of Gijduvan, where we&apos;ll visit the shop of a well-known family of ceramicists, now in its sixth generation. They use centuries-old techniques in their work, including wood-fired kilns, foot-powered wheels, and locally made glazes. We&apos;ll have lunch at the pottery shop, then continue to Bukhara. Dinner tonight in Bukhara is in The Old House, one of the traditional residences in Bukhara&apos;s historic Jewish Quarter. Bukhara was home to a Jewish community for over two millennia and was the heart of Jewish life in Central Asia. The houses were included on the World Monuments Watch in 2020. Overnight at the As-Salam Boutique Hotel.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 180 miles, 4- 5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Bukhara","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"When the Silk Road was a network of multiple roads connecting the East and the West, Bukhara was known as the &ldquo;Shining Pearl.&rdquo; Today, Bukhara still stands as one of Central Asia&apos;s most romantic and atmospheric ancient cities, dating back 25 centuries and offering a unique example of a medieval Central Asian town. In its heyday (9th to 16th centuries), over 100 madrasas and 200 mosques were built here, and dozens of azure onion domes dot the skyline.\r\n\r\nOur full-day walking tour includes fascinating places like the Ark, a massive 3rd century fortress that encompassed royal courts, reception halls, and the emir&apos;s throne. It was in use from the 5th century until 1920, when it was destroyed by the Red Army. We&apos;ll see the early 19th century Chor-Minor (&ldquo;four minarets&rdquo;), one of the architectural gems of the city, with its four blue-domed minarets, each one a different shape. At the Bolo-Khaouz Mosque, we&apos;ll appreciate the beautifully ornamented ceiling and elegant wooden columns, and at the mighty Kalyan minaret, over 100 feet tall, we&apos;ll gaze up at one of the most prominent landmarks in the city, built in 1127 to summon worshippers to prayer five times a day. One of the city&apos;s most impressive sights is the Samanid Mausoleum, the family crypt for Ismail Samanid, founder of the Samanid Dynasty. It is the best surviving example of 10th century architecture in the Muslim world. Another site on our walk is the iconic Djuiboriy Kalon Madrasa, built during the 15th-17th centuries. It functioned as a school up until the 19th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight at the As-Salam Boutique Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Train to Khiva","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Departing about noon, we journey by train through the expansive Kyzyl Kum Desert to Khiva. After several days of active touring, this will be a day to relax on board and enjoy views of Central Asia&apos;s vast landscape. On arrival in Khiva, we check into our hotel and walk into the walled city for dinner. Overnight at the Malika Kheiwak Hotel, located inside the ancient city walls.\r\n\r\nTrain Details: Approximately 6-7 hours, departs Bukhara around noon and arrives Khiva at around 7 pm (subject to change). Please note: Should the train not be operating during our visit due to unforeseen cancellations, which do happen in Uzbekistan, we will travel to Khiva by van.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Khiva","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"The stunning desert town of Khiva is one of the most intact Silk Road cities in the world, known for the exquisite Islamic architecture within its 600-acre historic center. It was Central Asia&apos;s very first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magic of Khiva is not so much in individual landmarks but in its complete harmony as an ensemble. Most of Khiva&apos;s palace buildings, mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, and other structures date from 1780\u20131850, when the city prospered as a trade depot and fortress along the caravan routes. We&apos;ll have a memorable day on foot in the Ichan-Kala (the inner walled city).\r\n\r\nWe&apos;ll visit the Kunya Ark (&ldquo;Old Citadel&rdquo;) complex, the residence of Khiva&apos;s khans, or supreme rulers. One of the most impressive sights in this complex is the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmoud, Khiva&apos;s patron saint, with its domed tombs and exquisitely patterned tiling. Among the other sites we&apos;ll explore today is the peaceful haven of the Juma (Friday) Mosque, its main chamber divided by a maze of 218 carved wooden columns, some dating to the 10th century. From nearly everywhere in Khiva, we&apos;ll enjoy views of the massive Kalta Minor tower, a symbol of the city. We&apos;ll have a restaurant lunch during our walk and dinner on the rooftop terrace of the Terasse Caf&eacute; surrounded by the palace walls of the old town. Overnight at the Malika Kheiwak Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":11,"DayTo":11,"Headline":"Tashkent","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We drive to Urgench this morning to catch the morning flight to Tashkent, and enjoy an afternoon city tour on arrival. Our visit will include some of Tashkent&apos;s fascinating metro stations, among the most ornate in the world, each with its own unique artistic elements. They tell the story of Uzbekistan through decorative motifs that depict the influence of the Silk Road and the Arab and Russian empires. We&apos;ll also visit the Museum of Applied Arts and stroll in Independence Square, with its ponds and fountains. Tonight we gather for our festive Farewell Dinner. Overnight at the Lotte Hotel.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 1 hour\r\nApproximate Flight Time: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":12,"DayTo":12,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to the airport for departure on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Tashkent \/ Termez","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>We visit Tashkent, the country's modern metropolis, then fly to off-the-beaten-path Termez in southernmost Uzbekistan to discover its unique Buddhist archaeological treasures, including UNESCO-listed Fayaz-Tepe, an ancient rock-cut monastery.<\/p><\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Samarkand","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>The celebrated city of Samarkand has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Our explorations here include the glorious Registan, the city's dazzling 15th century public square, with its remarkable ensemble of tiled madrasas, and a walk down the Sha-i-Zinda, an avenue of tiled mausoleums with some of the most amazing tilework in the Muslim world.<\/p><\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Nurata Mountains","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<body>Heading to the Nurata Mountains, we'll be welcomed at a village guesthouse. Hill walks bring us into a peaceful setting of farms and orchards, and we'll have a cooking class one evening in a village home. At night under the desert sky, the stargazing is wonderful.<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Bukhara Ancient","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Ancient Bukhara stands as one of Central Asia's most romantic and atmospheric cities, dating back 25 centuries and revealing a unique example of a medieval town. Dozens of azure domes dot the skyline. We'll gaze up at the mighty Kalyan spire, over 100 feet tall, and visit the 19th century Chor-Minor, with its four minarets, each a different shape. At the impressive Samanid Mausoleum, we'll see the best surviving example of 10th century architecture in the Muslim world. Along the way, we stop in at traditional chaikhanas (teahouses), and one afternoon we have an option for a soak in a hammam (bathhouse).<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":13,"Headline":"Khiva \/ Tashkent","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>A train ride bring us to remote Khiva, a stunning walled town and Central Asia's very first UNESCO site. Its perfect collection of sand-colored mosques and madrasas date from 1780&ndash;1850, when the city prospered as a trade depot along the desert caravan routes. Our explorations include the peaceful haven of the Juma Mosque, with its maze of 200 carved wooden columns, and the massive Kalta Minor tower, a symbol of the city. The mud-walled alleyways and blue-tiled domes of Khiva are a spectacular finale for our Silk Road odyssey. After a return to Tashkent, depart on Day 13.<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2023","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/ultimate-uzbekistan-itinerary-2023.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/ultimate-uzbekistan-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/ultimate-uzbekistan-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Explore Samarkand&apos;s Registan Square, a masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":25454,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":2,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Visit the 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He holds a BA in History from Delhi University and is a noted photographer. His book, Trekking in the Himalaya (Roli Books), features photographic essays from Ladakh to Bhutan. Born an army brat, Hashmat traveled extensively as his father was posted in various remote regions of India. His first big Himalayan trek was at age 12, with his school group, and during college, he headed into the Himalaya to take mountaineering courses. &ldquo;Big mountains of the world, whether they are in the Himalaya, Alps, or the Andes, hold a special fascination for me, as do the people living amongst them, holding on to their ancient cultures in a world where everything is rapidly changing.&rdquo; A passionate traveler, Hashmat has been instrumental in designing and leading adventures for us throughout Asia, and in summer, he joins our team of Trip Leaders leading hikes in the Alps. 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Overview

    Book Online Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    Join our Trip Leader extraordinaire Hashmat Singh to discover Uzbekistan's legendary Silk Road settings, including the majestic architectural ensemble of Samarkand's 15th century Registan Square, the atmospheric bazaars of Bukhara, and the lost-in-time city of Khiva, a sand-colored mirage in the desert. Along the way, we'll sip tea in chaikhanas (teahouses), meet traditional artisans, and roam the bustling markets. Mid-trip, we'll take a two-day break from city life at a village guesthouse in the Nurata Mountains, with time to stretch our legs on hill walks and enjoy a cooking class. The mixture of Silk Road heritage, Soviet legacy, and distinctive Uzbek culture in this fabled land is fascinating, and the welcome is truly heartfelt.

    Arrive: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

    Depart: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

    Highlights

    • Explore Samarkand's Registan Square, a masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture
    • Visit the markets and hammams of Bukhara, walk the lanes of the walled city of Khiva
    • Enjoy the peaceful Nurata Mountains for country walks and a taste of village life
    • Sip tea in historic chaikhanas (teahouses), meet artisans, hear traditional Uzbek music
    • Stay in well-located boutique hotels in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva

    Itinerary

    Download Itinerary Expand All Days

    We visit Tashkent, the country's modern metropolis, then fly to off-the-beaten-path Termez in southernmost Uzbekistan to discover its unique Buddhist archaeological treasures, including UNESCO-listed Fayaz-Tepe, an ancient rock-cut monastery.

    The celebrated city of Samarkand has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Our explorations here include the glorious Registan, the city's dazzling 15th century public square, with its remarkable ensemble of tiled madrasas, and a walk down the Sha-i-Zinda, an avenue of tiled mausoleums with some of the most amazing tilework in the Muslim world.

    Heading to the Nurata Mountains, we'll be welcomed at a village guesthouse. Hill walks bring us into a peaceful setting of farms and orchards, and we'll have a cooking class one evening in a village home. At night under the desert sky, the stargazing is wonderful.
    Ancient Bukhara stands as one of Central Asia's most romantic and atmospheric cities, dating back 25 centuries and revealing a unique example of a medieval town. Dozens of azure domes dot the skyline. We'll gaze up at the mighty Kalyan spire, over 100 feet tall, and visit the 19th century Chor-Minor, with its four minarets, each a different shape. At the impressive Samanid Mausoleum, we'll see the best surviving example of 10th century architecture in the Muslim world. Along the way, we stop in at traditional chaikhanas (teahouses), and one afternoon we have an option for a soak in a hammam (bathhouse).
    A train ride bring us to remote Khiva, a stunning walled town and Central Asia's very first UNESCO site. Its perfect collection of sand-colored mosques and madrasas date from 1780–1850, when the city prospered as a trade depot along the desert caravan routes. Our explorations include the peaceful haven of the Juma Mosque, with its maze of 200 carved wooden columns, and the massive Kalta Minor tower, a symbol of the city. The mud-walled alleyways and blue-tiled domes of Khiva are a spectacular finale for our Silk Road odyssey. After a return to Tashkent, depart on Day 13.

    Dates & Pricing

    The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

    Payment & Cancel Schedule

    $600 due at time of reservation
    90 days prior to departure: Balance

    Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

    Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
    61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
    46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
    45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

    Included
    • Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
    • Accommodations in comfortable hotels and guesthouses (this includes the hotel on Day 0)
    • All meals
    • All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
    • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
    Not Included
    • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
    • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
    • Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
    • Optional travel insurance
    • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
    • Visa fees

    Accommodations

    Listed below are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

    Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace

    Day 1 (1 night)

    Once a Soviet-era accommodation called the Hotel Tashkent Palace, the newly refurbished Lotte City Hotel offers clean, comfortable, and spacious rooms, and a building with local character. It has one of the best locations in the city, walkable to almost any part of town. The Opera House is across the street, and Sailgokh Street (or “Broadway”) is good for walking, with artists on the sidewalks and lots of restaurants. The hotel has a bar, gym, and swimming pool.

    Meridian Hotel

    Day 2 (1 night)

    The basic Meridian Hotel Termez has a bar, terrace, and central location. All rooms feature air conditioning. There are currently no hotels of international standard in Termez because so few tourist visit the city, and the city's infrastructure dates from the Soviet era. However, we feel Termez is very much worth visiting and is an opportunity to experience a part of the country few other travelers do.

    Sangzor Boutique Hotel

    Days 3-5 (3 nights)

    The Sangzor is ideally located in the heart of Samarkand, close to Registan Square, Bibi Khanym Mosque, and many restaurants and shops. Guest rooms are nicely appointed and there is a nearby garden for relaxing.

    Elmurat's Guesthouse

    Days 6-7 (2 nights)

    The village guesthouse in Ukhum in the Nurata Mountains has rooms with attached shared bathrooms. It is simple but a very peaceful and welcoming accommodation. There is a garden to relax in, and in the evening after dinner, if skies are clear, the star-gazing is fantastic.

    As-Salam Boutique Hotel

    Days 8-9 (2 nights)

    The family-run As-Salam Boutique Hotel is located in Bukhara's UNESCO-listed Old Town, just a five-minute walk from the famous mosques and madrasas. It offers guest rooms with modern comforts, a traditional interior courtyard, air conditioning, friendly service, and a home-cooked breakfast served on the terrace.

    Malika Kheivak Hotel

    Days 10-11 (2 nights)

    Located inside Khiva's ancient city walls, the Malika Kheiwak is simple and basic, with clean, air-conditioned room spread around an open courtyard. Décor is traditional Uzbek style. The ideal location inside the city walls means we can just step outside the door and walk anywhere, as the entire walled city is a pedestrian zone.

    Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace

    Day 12 (1 night)

    Once a Soviet-era accommodation called the Hotel Tashkent Palace, the newly refurbished Lotte City Hotel offers clean, comfortable, and spacious rooms, and a building with local character. It has one of the best locations in the city, walkable to almost any part of town. The Opera House is across the street, and Sailgokh Street (or “Broadway”) is good for walking, with artists on the sidewalks and lots of restaurants. The hotel has a bar, gym, and swimming pool.

    1/7

    Trip Leaders

    Hashmat Singh

    View Profile

    What the Trip is Like

    The trip is Level 3, Moderate, according to our trip grading system, with walking tours and cultural explorations. While this is not a hiking trip and is not expected to be physically strenuous, the rustic accommodations, long travel and touring days, and transportation conditions may feel demanding. You will need to be comfortable being on your feet for 6-7 hours a day and sitting in a car or train for up to 6-7 hours in a day.
    Review Trip Level Details
    On our walking tours, there are areas with uneven footing, especially in Khiva, where there are steep and uneven stairs to climb. Good mobility and sturdy footing are necessary for our daily activities. A collapsible hiking pole can be helpful. On occasion, you may have to haul your own luggage for a short distance when we are checking in and out of a hotel, as porters may not always be available.
    The best times to visit Uzbekistan are April-May and September-November. In these months, the daytime temperatures are milder and the nights are nice and cool. Daytime temperatures are in the 70-80s, dropping to the 60s at night. The hottest period is from late June to mid-August. The winter months can be very cold.
    We'll be staying in the best-available city hotels, and while they are comfortable, they may not always be up to the high international standards you are used to. For two nights in the mountains, we stay in a village guesthouse that is simple and has shared bathroom facilities. Single rooms can be requested, but are not guaranteed, and your two nights in the guesthouse may require you to share a room with a fellow single traveler of the same gender (talk to your Trip Specialist for details). Many of these hotels are chosen for their proximity to the centers of the historic districts. However, that means our vehicle cannot always drop your bags off at the front door. When this is the case, you will need to carry your own bags 200-400 yards to the hotel as porters are typically not available.
    Uzbekistan shares its culinary tradition with Turkey as well as China and other Eastern Asian countries. Meals are relatively meat-centered, with “palov” as the national dish. Palov (similar to pilaf) is a hearty portion of rice topped with lamb or beef, onions, garlic, raisins, carrots, and apricots. Another common dish is shashlik, a type of shish kebab, traditionally lamb or mutton, served on skewers. For vegetarians, there are usually salad options available, including achichuk, a staple around the country made with fresh tomatoes, a Manchego-like cheese, and onion. Uzbekistan's bread, or non, comes in all shapes and sizes and is somewhat similar to nan, the bread of India. Green tea is the national hot beverage, taken throughout the day at teahouses (chaikhanas). Ayran, a chilled yogurt drink, is also popular. Availability of wine at restaurants is very limited. At the guesthouse we stay in the Nurata Mountains, there is no alcohol available but our hosts do not mind if we bring our own.
    Our private van(s) transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need for the day (water bottle, camera, sweater, etc.). Roads in Uzbekistan are generally well paved; however, there will be times, especially in the Nurata Mountains, where they will become quite bumpy. There are multiple long drives throughout the trip, a 6-7 hour train ride, and two short internal flights. The advantage of moving around the country as much as we do in this journey is that it allows us to experience the best of the wide diversity of regions, history, and culture that Uzbekistan has to offer.

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    Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

    Itinerary

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    Trip Levels

    With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

    Level 1 – Easiest

    Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

    Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

    Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

     

    Level 3 – Moderate

    Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

    Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

    Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

     

    Level 5 – Strenuous

    Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

    Level 6 – Very Strenuous

    Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

    {"trip":{"TripID":10546,"Trip_Code":"ULTUZBEK","Trip_Name":"Ultimate Uzbekistan","TripYear":"2024","BrandName":"Wilderness Travel","BrandID":1,"Trip_Tag_Line":"see custom fields","Start_Location":"Tashkent, Uzbekistan","End_Location":"Tashkent, Uzbekistan","Number_Days":13,"Number_Nights":12,"DisplayOnWeb":true,"Book_On_Web":true,"Featured":false,"SpecialEvent":false,"BestSeller":false,"Short_Description":"<p>Join our Trip Leader extraordinaire Hashmat Singh to discover Uzbekistan's legendary Silk Road settings, including the majestic architectural ensemble of Samarkand's 15th century Registan Square, the atmospheric bazaars of Bukhara, and the lost-in-time city of Khiva, a sand-colored mirage in the desert. Along the way, we'll sip tea in <em>chaikhanas<\/em> (teahouses), meet traditional artisans, and roam the bustling markets. Mid-trip, we'll take a two-day break from city life at a village guesthouse in the Nurata Mountains, with time to stretch our legs on hill walks and enjoy a cooking class. 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Most flights arrive in the early morning, so you&apos;ll have time to rest up at the hotel before meeting the group for lunch at a local restaurant. The city is a modern metropolis that blends historic buildings and international business life. Due to the 1966 earthquake that leveled the city and the consequent Soviet-era rebuilding, little remains of old Tashkent, but Khast Imam Square is fascinating and has been rebuilt to include a new mosque with traditional architectural elements. One of the attractions in the square is the small Muyi Mubarak Library, which holds the oldest Quran in the world. We&apos;ll have our trip briefing and Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant, with overnight at the Lotte Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Fly to Termez \/ Kara Tepe \/ Mausoleum of Hakim at-Termizi \/ Kampyr-Tepe","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A morning flight brings us to Termez, the southernmost city in Uzbekistan, located on the Amu Darya River near the border with Afghanistan. We&apos;ll check into our hotel and have lunch. Few travelers venture to off-the-beaten-path Termez but it has some wonderful archaeological sites. In the afternoon, we visit fascinating Fayaz-Tepe, the ruins of an ancient rock-cut Buddhist monastery and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A shepherd discovered Fayaz-Tepe in 1968, and Uzbekistan&apos;s Soviet government excavated it soon afterward. We&apos;ll also see the beautifully tiled Mausoleum of Hakim at-Termizi, Termez&apos; holiest site, a 15th century complex set on a hill overlooking the Amu Darya River. Further outside Termez, we visit the 4th century fortress-ruins of Kampyr-Tepe, another UNESCO site. Archaeologists associate the fortress with the legendary Alexandria on the Oxus, a city founded in the 4th century BC in the wake of the campaigns of Alexander the Great. Overnight at the Meridian Hotel in Termez.\r\n\r\nApproximate Flying Details: 1 hour and 15 minutes","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Drive to Shahrisabz \/ Samarkand","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A drive along and beside the Pamir Mountains brings us to Shahrisabz, a small Uzbek town famed as the birthplace of Timur (or Tamerlane), the infamous Turco-Mongol conqueror and the founder of the Timurid Empire in Persia and Central Asia. Born in 1336 AD, Timur is considered one of the greatest nomadic rulers of all time, leading his military all over Asia. After lunch, we&apos;ll explore Shahrisabz&apos; monuments, including the blue-domed Kok Gumbaz Masjid, built in 1434, and the ruins of the once-towering 14th century Aq Saray Palace, Timur&apos;s summer home. In the late afternoon, we&apos;ll continue through the cotton plantations of the Zerafshan Valley to Samarkand, with dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at hotel.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 5 hours to Shahrisabz;&nbsp;2 hours to Samarkand","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Samarkand","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"The southern Uzbek city of Samarkand has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. It is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Central Asia and was a key strategic trading post on the ancient Silk Road. &nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe&apos;ll have two full days here, beginning with a visit to the Registan, the city&apos;s 15th century public square. Built by Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur, the majestic Registan (&ldquo;Place of Sand&rdquo;) is an early example of Islamic urban planning and is famed for its stunning azure mosaics. It was built as a place where the local people could gather to hear royal news and see justice administered. Three madrasas (religious schools) survive, facing into the central courtyard, with two of them opening into internal courtyards that now house small retail shops tucked into the massive walls. They are elaborately adorned with glazed clay tiles. This masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.\r\n\r\nAt the Sha-i-Zinda, an incredible avenue of tiled mausoleums, we&apos;ll be surrounded by what many consider the most amazing collection of tilework in the Muslim world. We&apos;ll then head up a hill above Samarkand to visit the ruins of the 15th century Ulugbek Observatory, one of the important observatories in the world during the Middle Ages. It was built by Ulugbek, who was not only a Timurid sultan but also an astronomer and mathematician. At the Guri Emir Mausoleum, we visit the tomb of the great ruler Timur, housed in a restored octahedral building crowned by an azure fluted dome. On our first evening we&apos;re in Samarkand, we&apos;ll watch the light show at the Registan, a dazzling display of lasers reflecting on the colorful facades. Overnights at hotel. each day","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"The Nurata Mountains \/ Ukhum Village","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"For a short break from Uzbekistan&apos;s city life, we&apos;ll drive out into the dry and rocky Nurata Mountans, stretched out between Kyzyl Kum Desert on the west and barren steppe on the east. In these low mountains, traditional villages dot the landscape amid rolling fields and orchards. On arrival in the village of Ukhum, we&apos;ll have a late lunch at our guesthouse, then take a tree-shaded walk up the valley to an ancient petroglyph site. Our local guide will introduce us to the history and culture of Nurata&apos;s villages. As we walk along the Ukhum River, we may pass shepherds and summer grazing grounds. Part of the Nurata Mountains were set aside as a nature reserve in 1975 to protect the endemic Severtzov sheep. The reserve is also home to wild boars, foxes, wolves, porcupines, and badgers.\r\n\r\nWe will be hosted for two nights in a stone-built guesthouse with simple rooms and attached shared bathrooms. The people of these mountains plant and grow their own vegetables, bake bread, and keep chickens and a few head of livestock. Our meals will be simple and may include delicious homemade yogurt and cheese, garden fruits, jams, and local eggs. There is no internet in the Nurata Mountains, so we&apos;ll enjoy an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the guesthouse&apos;s garden amid the shade of mulberry, walnut, and apricot trees. Overnight at guesthouse.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 5 hours\r\nApproximate Hiking Details: 5 miles, 2-3 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"The Nurata Mountains \/ Ukhum Village to Hayat Village","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A hike starting from our village brings us along a gently meandering trail that leads to the top of a pass and down to the neighboring village of Hayat in an adjacent valley. The views from the ridgetop are fantastic, and there&apos;s an abandoned fortress to visit along the way. We&apos;ll have lunch in Hayat,&nbsp;then hike back to Ukhum village or return by road. In the afternoon, we&apos;ll watch or take part in a cooking class in a local home, followed by a home-cooked dinner. Overnight at guesthouse.\r\n\r\nApproximate Hiking Details: 6-7 miles, 4 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Malik Caravansary \/ Gijduvan Pottery \/ Bukhara","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"On our drive to Bukhara today, we visit Malik Sardoba, one of the 11th century water cisterns that were used for water storage in the desert. These cisterns provided an oasis for Silk Road caravans and their camels as they crossed the desert. Our next stop is the town of Gijduvan, where we&apos;ll visit the shop of a well-known family of ceramicists, now in its sixth generation. They use centuries-old techniques in their work, including wood-fired kilns, foot-powered wheels, and locally made glazes. We&apos;ll have lunch at the pottery shop, then continue to Bukhara. Dinner tonight in Bukhara is in The Old House, one of the traditional residences in Bukhara&apos;s historic Jewish Quarter. Bukhara was home to a Jewish community for over two millennia and was the heart of Jewish life in Central Asia. The houses were included on the World Monuments Watch in 2020. Overnight at the As-Salam Boutique Hotel.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 180 miles, 4- 5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Bukhara","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"When the Silk Road was a network of multiple roads connecting the East and the West, Bukhara was known as the &ldquo;Shining Pearl.&rdquo; Today, Bukhara still stands as one of Central Asia&apos;s most romantic and atmospheric ancient cities, dating back 25 centuries and offering a unique example of a medieval Central Asian town. In its heyday (9th to 16th centuries), over 100 madrasas and 200 mosques were built here, and dozens of azure onion domes dot the skyline.\r\n\r\nOur full-day walking tour includes fascinating places like the Ark, a massive 3rd century fortress that encompassed royal courts, reception halls, and the emir&apos;s throne. It was in use from the 5th century until 1920, when it was destroyed by the Red Army. We&apos;ll see the early 19th century Chor-Minor (&ldquo;four minarets&rdquo;), one of the architectural gems of the city, with its four blue-domed minarets, each one a different shape. At the Bolo-Khaouz Mosque, we&apos;ll appreciate the beautifully ornamented ceiling and elegant wooden columns, and at the mighty Kalyan minaret, over 100 feet tall, we&apos;ll gaze up at one of the most prominent landmarks in the city, built in 1127 to summon worshippers to prayer five times a day. One of the city&apos;s most impressive sights is the Samanid Mausoleum, the family crypt for Ismail Samanid, founder of the Samanid Dynasty. It is the best surviving example of 10th century architecture in the Muslim world. Another site on our walk is the iconic Djuiboriy Kalon Madrasa, built during the 15th-17th centuries. It functioned as a school up until the 19th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight at the As-Salam Boutique Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Train to Khiva","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Departing about noon, we journey by train through the expansive Kyzyl Kum Desert to Khiva. After several days of active touring, this will be a day to relax on board and enjoy views of Central Asia&apos;s vast landscape. On arrival in Khiva, we check into our hotel and walk into the walled city for dinner. Overnight at the Malika Kheiwak Hotel, located inside the ancient city walls.\r\n\r\nTrain Details: Approximately 6-7 hours, departs Bukhara around noon and arrives Khiva at around 7 pm (subject to change). Please note: Should the train not be operating during our visit due to unforeseen cancellations, which do happen in Uzbekistan, we will travel to Khiva by van.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Khiva","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"The stunning desert town of Khiva is one of the most intact Silk Road cities in the world, known for the exquisite Islamic architecture within its 600-acre historic center. It was Central Asia&apos;s very first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magic of Khiva is not so much in individual landmarks but in its complete harmony as an ensemble. Most of Khiva&apos;s palace buildings, mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, and other structures date from 1780\u20131850, when the city prospered as a trade depot and fortress along the caravan routes. We&apos;ll have a memorable day on foot in the Ichan-Kala (the inner walled city).\r\n\r\nWe&apos;ll visit the Kunya Ark (&ldquo;Old Citadel&rdquo;) complex, the residence of Khiva&apos;s khans, or supreme rulers. One of the most impressive sights in this complex is the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmoud, Khiva&apos;s patron saint, with its domed tombs and exquisitely patterned tiling. Among the other sites we&apos;ll explore today is the peaceful haven of the Juma (Friday) Mosque, its main chamber divided by a maze of 218 carved wooden columns, some dating to the 10th century. From nearly everywhere in Khiva, we&apos;ll enjoy views of the massive Kalta Minor tower, a symbol of the city. We&apos;ll have a restaurant lunch during our walk and dinner on the rooftop terrace of the Terasse Caf&eacute; surrounded by the palace walls of the old town. Overnight at the Malika Kheiwak Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":11,"DayTo":11,"Headline":"Tashkent","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We drive to Urgench this morning to catch the morning flight to Tashkent, and enjoy an afternoon city tour on arrival. Our visit will include some of Tashkent&apos;s fascinating metro stations, among the most ornate in the world, each with its own unique artistic elements. They tell the story of Uzbekistan through decorative motifs that depict the influence of the Silk Road and the Arab and Russian empires. We&apos;ll also visit the Museum of Applied Arts and stroll in Independence Square, with its ponds and fountains. Tonight we gather for our festive Farewell Dinner. Overnight at the Lotte Hotel.\r\n\r\nApproximate Driving Details: 1 hour\r\nApproximate Flight Time: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":12,"DayTo":12,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to the airport for departure on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Tashkent \/ Termez","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>We visit Tashkent, the country's modern metropolis, then fly to off-the-beaten-path Termez in southernmost Uzbekistan to discover its unique Buddhist archaeological treasures, including UNESCO-listed Fayaz-Tepe, an ancient rock-cut monastery.<\/p><\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Samarkand","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>The celebrated city of Samarkand has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Our explorations here include the glorious Registan, the city's dazzling 15th century public square, with its remarkable ensemble of tiled madrasas, and a walk down the Sha-i-Zinda, an avenue of tiled mausoleums with some of the most amazing tilework in the Muslim world.<\/p><\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Nurata Mountains","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<body>Heading to the Nurata Mountains, we'll be welcomed at a village guesthouse. Hill walks bring us into a peaceful setting of farms and orchards, and we'll have a cooking class one evening in a village home. At night under the desert sky, the stargazing is wonderful.<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Bukhara Ancient","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Ancient Bukhara stands as one of Central Asia's most romantic and atmospheric cities, dating back 25 centuries and revealing a unique example of a medieval town. Dozens of azure domes dot the skyline. We'll gaze up at the mighty Kalyan spire, over 100 feet tall, and visit the 19th century Chor-Minor, with its four minarets, each a different shape. At the impressive Samanid Mausoleum, we'll see the best surviving example of 10th century architecture in the Muslim world. Along the way, we stop in at traditional chaikhanas (teahouses), and one afternoon we have an option for a soak in a hammam (bathhouse).<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":13,"Headline":"Khiva \/ Tashkent","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>A train ride bring us to remote Khiva, a stunning walled town and Central Asia's very first UNESCO site. Its perfect collection of sand-colored mosques and madrasas date from 1780&ndash;1850, when the city prospered as a trade depot along the desert caravan routes. Our explorations include the peaceful haven of the Juma Mosque, with its maze of 200 carved wooden columns, and the massive Kalta Minor tower, a symbol of the city. The mud-walled alleyways and blue-tiled domes of Khiva are a spectacular finale for our Silk Road odyssey. 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He holds a BA in History from Delhi University and is a noted photographer. His book, Trekking in the Himalaya (Roli Books), features photographic essays from Ladakh to Bhutan. Born an army brat, Hashmat traveled extensively as his father was posted in various remote regions of India. His first big Himalayan trek was at age 12, with his school group, and during college, he headed into the Himalaya to take mountaineering courses. &ldquo;Big mountains of the world, whether they are in the Himalaya, Alps, or the Andes, hold a special fascination for me, as do the people living amongst them, holding on to their ancient cultures in a world where everything is rapidly changing.&rdquo; A passionate traveler, Hashmat has been instrumental in designing and leading adventures for us throughout Asia, and in summer, he joins our team of Trip Leaders leading hikes in the Alps. 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Head out for cultural encounters and fantastic day hikes in the ancient realm of Uzbekistan.","Custom_List_Description":"Discover the Silk Road cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. Head out for fantastic day hikes and cultural encounters including tea ceremonies and traditional music performances.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Ultimate Uzbekistan Tour | Samarkand, Bukhara & Tashkent","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-21T12:46:08 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport<\/strong>: Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time<\/strong>: Day 1, before 7:00 am <br \/><br \/><strong>Meeting Place<\/strong>: You will meet your Trip Leader in the lobby of the Lotte City Hotel at 11:00 am on Day 1. <br \/><br \/><strong>Arrival Note<\/strong>: A complimentary transfer is provided from the airport to the Lotte City Hotel. Most international flights arrive into Tashkent in the early morning. Wilderness Travel will provide a hotel room for you to check into starting at 4 pm on Day 0 so you can relax and rest before meeting the group at 11:00 am on Day 1.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-21T12:47:24 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport<\/strong>: Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time<\/strong>: Day 13, anytime<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-21T13:09:25 --><p>You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Uzbekistan.<br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.<br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule so we can reserve your airport transfers. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"A Cultural Odyssey from Samarkand to Khiva","Custom_Lodging":"9 nights comfortable hotels, 2 nights village guesthouse, 1 night basic hotel","Custom_Meals":"All meals included","Custom_Activity":"","Custom_Difficulty":"Overland travel with walking tours, cultural explorations","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"The trip is <strong>Level 3, Moderate<\/strong>, according to our trip grading system, with walking tours and cultural explorations. While this is not a hiking trip and is not expected to be physically strenuous, the rustic accommodations, long travel and touring days, and transportation conditions may feel demanding. You will need to be comfortable being on your feet for 6-7 hours a day and sitting in a car or train for up to 6-7 hours in a day.","Custom_Terrain":"On our walking tours, there are areas with uneven footing, especially in Khiva, where there are steep and uneven stairs to climb. Good mobility and sturdy footing are necessary for our daily activities. A collapsible hiking pole can be helpful. On occasion, you may have to haul your own luggage for a short distance when we are checking in and out of a hotel, as porters may not always be available.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"The best times to visit Uzbekistan are April-May and September-November. In these months, the daytime temperatures are milder and the nights are nice and cool. Daytime temperatures are in the 70-80s, dropping to the 60s at night. The hottest period is from late June to mid-August. The winter months can be very cold.","Custom_Accommodations":"We'll be staying in the best-available city hotels, and while they are comfortable, they may not always be up to the high international standards you are used to. For two nights in the mountains, we stay in a village guesthouse that is simple and has shared bathroom facilities. Single rooms can be requested, but are not guaranteed, and your two nights in the guesthouse may require you to share a room with a fellow single traveler of the same gender (talk to your Trip Specialist for details). Many of these hotels are chosen for their proximity to the centers of the historic districts. However, that means our vehicle cannot always drop your bags off at the front door. When this is the case, you will need to carry your own bags 200-400 yards to the hotel as porters are typically not available.","Custom_Cuisine":"Uzbekistan shares its culinary tradition with Turkey as well as China and other Eastern Asian countries. Meals are relatively meat-centered, with &ldquo;palov&rdquo; as the national dish. Palov (similar to pilaf) is a hearty portion of rice topped with lamb or beef, onions, garlic, raisins, carrots, and apricots. Another common dish is shashlik, a type of shish kebab, traditionally lamb or mutton, served on skewers. For vegetarians, there are usually salad options available, including achichuk, a staple around the country made with fresh tomatoes, a Manchego-like cheese, and onion. Uzbekistan&apos;s bread, or non, comes in all shapes and sizes and is somewhat similar to nan, the bread of India. Green tea is the national hot beverage, taken throughout the day at teahouses (chaikhanas). Ayran, a chilled yogurt drink, is also popular. Availability of wine at restaurants is very limited. At the guesthouse we stay in the Nurata Mountains, there is no alcohol available but our hosts do not mind if we bring our own.","Custom_Transportation":"Our private van(s) transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need for the day (water bottle, camera, sweater, etc.). Roads in Uzbekistan are generally well paved; however, there will be times, especially in the Nurata Mountains, where they will become quite bumpy. There are multiple long drives throughout the trip, a 6-7 hour train ride, and two short internal flights. The advantage of moving around the country as much as we do in this journey is that it allows us to experience the best of the wide diversity of regions, history, and culture that Uzbekistan has to offer.","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:50:16 --><p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual loris of physical exertion, or activities you ma not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 and ask for the<\/p>","System_References":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:50:51 --><p>We'd be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us on this trip.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:51:32 --><p>At <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and special WT Expeditions that aren't listed in our catalog. You can also access a complete library of our detailed itineraries and browse the customized reading guides for each of our adventures.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-17T11:00:24 --><p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions -- even if it's just the two of you -- yet still enjoy a guided adventure.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:34:09 --><p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br \/>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:36:23 --><p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travclcxinsurancc.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T13:27:44 --><p><strong>COVID-19 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please double-check COVID-19 entry requirements for any countries you may be traveling to or transiting through, on this website: <a href=\"apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions\">apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions<\/a><\/p>","System_Pre-Trip_Safety":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:37:06 --><p><strong>PRE-TRIP SAFETY:<\/strong> In the next weeks, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy. Please practice social distancing, steer clear of potential COVID-19 exposure, and take an at-home antigen or lab based PCR test before you depart.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"","System_Questions?":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T13:47:31 --><p>Our Area Specialists are you single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about yout trip!<br \/>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-13T09:24:57 --><p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. The Trip Leader for each departure is listed on the &quot;Dates &amp; Prices&quot; tab on our Pilgrim's Way webpage:<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>$600 due at time of reservation <br \/>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p><\/body>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}