NEW TRIP

A Cultural Odyssey from Samarkand to Khiva

Ultimate Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan

13 Days

From $5,695

Level 3

Moderate

Overview

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    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

    Overview

      Book Online Download Itinerary

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

      Itinerary

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      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).
      We drive 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

      Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. 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

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

      Meridian Hotel

      Termez, Uzbekistan

      Days 1-2 (2 nights)

      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...

      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

      Nurata Mountains, Uzbekistan

      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

      Bukhara, Uzbekistan

      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

      Khiva, Uzbekistan

      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...

      Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace

      Tashkent, Uzbekistan

      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...

      Trip Leaders

      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. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

      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 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 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. Note: Smaller groups will be in a van; for larger groups we use a comfortable bus.

      Book your trip today

      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.

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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":"Ancient Bukhara","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"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).","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":"We drive 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.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/ultimate-uzbekistan-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","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":33582,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":2,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Visit the markets and hammams of Bukhara, walk the lanes of the walled city of Khiva","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":33582,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":3,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Enjoy the peaceful Nurata Mountains for country walks and a taste of village life","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":33582,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":4,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Sip tea in historic chaikhanas (teahouses), meet artisans, hear traditional Uzbek music","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":33582,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":5,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Stay in well-located boutique hotels in Samarkand, Bukhara, and 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Room","VendorName":"Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"lotte-city-hotel-tashkent-palace","Custom_Location":"Tashkent"}},{"VendorID":73148,"Day_Number":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Meridian Hotel","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"meridian-hotel","Custom_Location":"Termez"}},{"VendorID":73150,"Day_Number":6,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Elmurat's Guesthouse","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"elmurats-guesthouse","Custom_Location":"Nurata Mountains"}},{"VendorID":73151,"Day_Number":8,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"As-Salam Boutique Hotel","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"as-salam-boutique-hotel","Custom_Location":"Bukhara"}},{"VendorID":73152,"Day_Number":10,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Malika Kheivak Hotel","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"malika-kheiwak-hotel","Custom_Location":"Khiva"}},{"VendorID":73730,"Day_Number":3,"Sequence":10,"Duration":3,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Sangzor Boutique Hotel","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"sangzor-hotel","Custom_Location":"","Custom_Additional_Emails":"","Custom_Addtional_Address":"","Custom_Accommodation_Types":"","Custom_Capacity":"","Custom_Amenties":""}}],"inclusions":[{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"E","Description":"Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"E","Description":"Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional travel insurance","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"E","Description":"Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":6,"Type":"E","Description":"Visa fees","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"I","Description":"Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"I","Description":"Accommodations in comfortable hotels and guesthouses (this includes the hotel on Day 0)","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"I","Description":"All meals","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"I","Description":"All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"I","Description":"All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""}],"destinations":[{"DestinationID":45,"Name":"Asia","Type":"Region"},{"DestinationID":275,"Name":"Central Asia"},{"DestinationID":131,"Name":"Uzbekistan","Type":"Country"}],"activities":[{"ActivityID":217,"Name":"Cultural","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":220,"Name":"Walking","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":225,"Name":"Hiking & Trekking","Primary":0}],"guides":[{"GuideID":850408,"First_Name":"Hashmat","Last_Name":"Singh","BioShort":"Hashmat Singh has led over 150 journeys on three continents for us since 1990. 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. A passionate traveler, Hashmat has been instrumental in designing new adventures for us throughout Asia. The profession of Trip Leader combines several of his interests&mdash;hiking, exploring the mountains, photography, and meeting new people. He&apos;s a favorite of WT travelers&mdash;as one of them put it, &ldquo;Hashmat is a longstanding member of the guiding hall of fame.&rdquo; He lives in Delhi with his wife and two children.","BioLong":"Hashmat Singh has led over 180 journeys on three continents for us since 1990. 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. The profession of Trip Leader combines several of his interests&mdash;hiking, exploring the mountains, photography, and meeting new people. He&apos;s a favorite of WT travelers&mdash;as one of them put it, &ldquo;Hashmat is a longstanding member of the guiding hall of fame.&rdquo; He lives in Delhi with his wife and two children."}],"guestreviews":[{}],"Extensions":[{}],"SimilarTrips":[{"TripID":10546,"SimilarTripID":10422,"Trip_Code":"TRCASPAN","Trip_Name":"Caspian Odyssey"},{"TripID":10546,"SimilarTripID":10297,"Trip_Code":"CENASIA","Trip_Name":"Central Asia Explorer"},{"TripID":10546,"SimilarTripID":10465,"Trip_Code":"CELESTIA","Trip_Name":"Kyrgyzstan: Hiking in the Celestial Mountains"},{"TripID":10546,"SimilarTripID":10250,"Trip_Code":"GREATGAM","Trip_Name":"The Great Game"}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73147,"ProductID":84814,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extra Hotel Night","Vendor":"Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Tashkent","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Pre-Trip Extra Services: Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace (DATES, 1 night)","Day":0,"Sequence":20,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"<p>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 &#8220;Broadway&#8221;) is good for walking, with artists on the sidewalks and lots of restaurants. The hotel has a bar, gym, and swimming pool.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-the-lotte-in-tashkent-bedroom.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73454,"ProductID":84661,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Vendor Ops Payment","Vendor":"Silk Road Travellers","Address1":"1\/16, Qiyatariq St","Address2":"Tuzel","City":"Tashkent","State":"","Postal":"11120","Product":"Ultimate Uzbekistan","Day":1,"Sequence":0,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73454,"ProductID":84660,"SelectType":"Mandatory","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Internal Flight","Vendor":"Silk Road Travellers","Address1":"1\/16, Qiyatariq St","Address2":"Tuzel","City":"Tashkent","State":"","Postal":"11120","Product":"Internal Airfare","Day":1,"Sequence":1,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":11,"ProductID":54,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Single Supplement","Vendor":"Wilderness Travel","Address1":"1102 Ninth Street","Address2":"","City":"Berkeley","State":"CA","Postal":"94710","Product":"Single Supplement","Day":1,"Sequence":2,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"<p><\/p>","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73148,"ProductID":82976,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Meridian Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Termez","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>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.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-meridien-hotel-in-termez_-exterior.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73730,"ProductID":85484,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Sangzor Boutique Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Samarkand","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":3,"Sequence":10,"Duration":3,"PropertyDescription":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>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.<\/body>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-sangzor-boutique-hotel-exterior.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73150,"ProductID":82978,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Elmurat's Guesthouse","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Nurata Mountains","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":6,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>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.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-elmurat-guesthouse-exterior.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73151,"ProductID":82979,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"As-Salam Boutique Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Bukhara","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":8,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>The family-run As-Salam Boutique Hotel is located in Bukhara&#39;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.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-as-salam-boutique-hotel-in-bukhara_courtyard.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73152,"ProductID":82980,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Malika Kheivak Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Khiva","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":10,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>Located inside Khiva&#39;s ancient city walls, the Malika Kheiwak is simple and basic, with clean, air-conditioned room spread around an open courtyard. D&eacute;cor 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.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-malika-kheivak-hotelexterior.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73147,"ProductID":82975,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Tashkent","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":12,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"<p>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 &#8220;Broadway&#8221;) is good for walking, with artists on the sidewalks and lots of restaurants. The hotel has a bar, gym, and swimming pool.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-the-lotte-in-tashkent-bedroom.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73147,"ProductID":84814,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extra Hotel Night","Vendor":"Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Tashkent","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Post-Trip Extra Services: Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace (DATES, 1 night)","Day":12,"Sequence":20,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"<p>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 &#8220;Broadway&#8221;) is good for walking, with artists on the sidewalks and lots of restaurants. The hotel has a bar, gym, and swimming pool.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-the-lotte-in-tashkent-bedroom.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false}],"CustomFields":{"Custom_TC_Detailed_Itin_URL":"","Custom_Trip_Name_Addendum":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Addendum":"","Custom_Trip_Level_5":"","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"Extra Service Request Form","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Emergency_Evac_Insurance":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Reading_List":"<strong>Reading List:<\/strong> Elevate your travel experience by delving into this <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-ultimate-uzbekistan\">curated collection of books<\/a> tailored to your upcoming adventure.","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"<strong>UZBEKISTAN VISA INFORMATION: <\/strong>US citizens under the age of 55 need a visa to enter Uzbekistan, and it must be obtianed prior to arrival. <br><br>Uzbekistan offers an e-visa service through the Uzbekistan government for US travelers: <a href=\"https:\/\/e-visa.gov.uz\/main\">https:\/\/e-visa.gov.uz\/main<\/a>. This e-visa is valid 90 days from the date of issue and allows for a single-entry of up to 30 days. <br><br>If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, please check with a local consulate for entry requirements. Please note that all visa requirements and regulations are subject to change.","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><strong>LUGGAGE REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please note that there is a total weight limit of 44 lbs. (20 kgs.) for the checked baggage on your internal flights in Uzbekistan. Some airlines also allow an additional small carry-on that weighs no more than 11 lbs. (5 kgs.).<\/body>","Custom_Carry-On":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><strong>CARRY-ON: <\/strong>Valuable or essential items, such as camera equipment, binoculars, and prescription medications, should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage.<\/body>","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"","Custom_Daypack":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>We created this adventure with veteran Trip Leader Hashmat Singh and have experience operating trips in this part of the world. This promises to be a wonderful adventure; however, please note that we will be traveling in some areas with a still-developing tourist infrastructure. Activities, driving, and hiking times noted in the itinerary may vary, depending on weather, road\/trail conditions, and other local factors beyond our control. Please bring along your spirit of adventure, and an openness to the unexpected.<\/body>","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"<strong>ARRIVING IN TASHKENT<\/strong><br>A Wilderness Travel representative will meet you upon your arrival in Tashkent. After passing through Customs and collecting your baggage, <strong><em>please exit the building and walk down a ramp to the barrier where taxi drivers are holding up signs<\/strong><\/em>. A representative will be waiting for you with a &ldquo;Wilderness Travel&rdquo; sign and\/or a sign with your name on it. You will be transferred to the Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace, our group hotel. <br><br>On Day 1 please meet Hashmat in the lobby of the Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace at <strong>9:00 am<\/strong> in order to begin the trip (with an orientation and lunch).<div><br> A hotel night for \"Day 0\" of the trip is included in your trip cost and booked for all travelers at the Lotte. If you have additional nights booked, please see the Extra Services Confirmation in your Final Documents Packet. <\/div>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<body><strong>DEPARTING TASHKENT<\/strong><br>A transfer will be provided to the airport for all participants.","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to your Trip Leaders and Local Agent (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground. <br><br>We recommend using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whatsapp.com\/\">WhatsApp<\/a>, and suggest you download the free app and enter the local emergency contact number(s) in advance of your trip.<\/body>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><strong>SILK ROAD TRAVELLERS (24-HR EMERGENCY CONTACT)<\/strong><br>\nFayzullo Ambarkulov<br>\ninfo@silkroadtravellers.com<br>\n+998-93-519-02-37<\/body>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><strong>HASHMAT SINGH (TRIP LEADER)<\/strong><br>\nHashmat.singh@icloud.com<\/body>","Custom_name_slug":"uzbekistan-bukhara-samarkand-cultural-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"Discover the Silk Road cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. 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":"<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 9:00 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 9:00 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_file_name":"ultimate-uzbekistan","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Uzbekistan. Your passport should have at least one completely blank visa page for each country you will be visiting. It is very important that these blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate \"Visa\" pages. You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\/passport_1738.html\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisaexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip. <br><br>It is a good idea to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"US citizens need a visa to enter Uzbekistan, and it must be obtained prior to arrival. <strong>A visa is not needed for US citizens age 55 and over.<\/strong> If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, please check with a local consulate for entry requirements. Please note that all visa requirements and regulations are subject to change. <br><br>Uzbekistan offers an e-visa service through the Uzbekistan government: <a href=\"https:\/\/e-visa.gov.uz\/main\">https:\/\/e-visa.gov.uz\/main<\/a>. This e-visa is valid 90 days from the date of issue and allows for a single-entry of up to 30 days. <br><br>The e-visa form will give a generic error at submission if the photo is not the right format. Please make sure your photo meets the following requirements:<ul><li>Your image needs to be 300dpi, 413x532px, and less than 1MB. You can adjust the dpi very easily on websites like this one: <a href=\"https:\/\/convert.town\/image-dpi\">https:\/\/convert.town\/image-dpi<\/a><\/li><li>Make sure you have a very white background in your photo (increasing the contrast can help).<\/li><li>Make sure your passport scan is straight on, not at an angle<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Money":"Uzbekistan uses the Uzbekistan Som, which hovers between UZS 11400 and 11500 to 1US$ at the time of this writing. ATM machines are very easy to use and are plentiful in the big towns of Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. There are ATMs within easy walking distance from our hotels in these cities. Credit cards are also quite easily accepted in the bigger cities in larger shops, although some of our smaller boutique hotels may only accept cash, so it is best to have some local currency with you during the trip&mdash;your Trip Leader can help you budget more specifically in-country. If you have extra Uzbekistan Som on hand at the end of the trip, you can use this to tip your local guide (instead of US Dollars). <br><br>If you plan to use your credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, and AMEX), please remember to inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card(s) abroad. Please note that hotels, shops, and restaurants may add a service charge of 3-4% when you use your credit card. <br><br>You will need to budget spending money for extra gratuities, any meals listed as &#8220;on your own&#8221; in the trip itinerary, and for personal items such as souvenirs, phone calls, laundry at hotels, etc.","Custom_Tipping":"During the trip, the Trip Leader takes care of tips for all drivers, waiters at restaurants, porters for luggage handling, and trip representatives who are with the group for only a short time. <br><br>For the staff who have accompanied you throughout a significant portion of your adventure&mdash;our local guide&mdash;excellent service can be rewarded through a pooled tip, a process that will be facilitated by your Trip Leader. Tipping for the Trip Leader is not formally organized. Should you wish to tip your Trip Leader, we suggest you do so toward the end of the adventure. <br><br>Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years, clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward outstanding service. A range of reference would be $100-120 per trip member for the local guide, and $180-220 per trip member for the Trip Leader. Please bring your tip money in US dollars.","Custom_Food":"We will do our best to accommodate special dietary needs. However, please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or limitations due to logistics can make it extremely difficult and at times impossible to accommodate dietary restrictions. It is important to bring a flexible attitude and supplemental snacks. Please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip begins if you have a restricted diet.","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Telephone<\/strong><br>The international dialing code for Uzbekistan is 998. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use, but do expect overall phone access to be very limited.<br><strong><br>Email &amp; Internet Access<\/strong><br>Internet access is typically available at hotels, lodges, and guesthouses on the trip, but may not have the strongest connection or highest speed. Local SIM cards are affordable and available at the airport and in many towns, should you have a mobile phone that allows you to use an international SIM card. Your Trip Leader can help you with this in-country.","Custom_Electricity":"Uzbekistan has 220-volt current and either C or F plug types. Bring a converter and plug adapter kit for appliance use.<br><br>","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"Entry requirements and international health situations are subject to change; check with the Centers for Disease Control for updates. All shots should be entered on your International Health Card (yellow card), which is provided by the facility giving the shots. Keep it with your passport while traveling. It provides an important personal record for you to refer to when making future travel plans. Please consult with your physician regarding the following:<br><strong><br>Tetanus Booster<\/strong><br>Strongly recommended (effective for 10 years).<br><strong><br>Polio<\/strong><br>People who have received the primary series of at least three doses of polio vaccine are considered fully immunized. People who are unsure of their status should receive the vaccine (three doses spaced at intervals).<br><strong><br>Hepatitis<\/strong><br>The vaccines HAVRIX and VAQTA (two injections, six to 18 months apart) give long-term protection against Hepatitis A and are worthwhile if you travel regularly to developing countries.<br><strong><br>Typhoid<\/strong><br>The CDC recommends the shot or the oral vaccine Vivotif Berna.","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"Change of diet and a number of other factors can cause stomach upsets while traveling, especially in underdeveloped countries. To guard against illness, follow these guidelines: <br><br>Consider all tap water unsafe. Do not drink it or brush your teeth with it. Bottled water is available everywhere. Don't drink the water served in restaurants (bottled water is widely available). Avoid ice in your drinks (it may not have been made with treated water). Beware of uncooked or raw foods such as fruit and green salads when you are not with the group. Fresh fruit and salads are commonly served at all hotels and restaurants during the trip, but please be careful with these foods if eating on your own, outside of the trip. Avoid custards, pastry creams, yogurt, and milk where refrigeration and pasteurization are unreliable. Don't eat food bought from sidewalk vendors. Overall, be conservative about what you eat. Frequent hand washing, especially after using the bathroom and before eating, can cut down on the possibility of traveler's diarrhea. On any airline, drink only the bottled water, not the tap water.","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"Medical services are extremely limited in certain areas we visit on this trip. In the event of illness requiring evacuation, there are risks involved. Depending upon the point where we are in the itinerary, an evacuation may take several days. You should bring an ample supply of any prescription medicines you need and the items listed on the personal first aid list, in consultation with your physician.","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-ultimate-uzbekistan\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"There are some essential elements common to the cultural experiences of most of the people of Uzbekistan. For example, respect for one's elders and hospitality are widespread cultural attributes. Here are some things to be aware of:<br><strong><br>Respect: <\/strong> Great respect is given to religious sites. These areas, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as sacred. It is not appropriate to climb up on one to take a photograph, or to do anything that might show a lack of respect. When in doubt, the best guide is to watch the local people and do what they do.<br><strong><br>Visiting Religious Sites: <\/strong> It's OK to wear shoes while walking around the compound, but shoes are often taken off before entering a religious site.<br><strong><br>Losing Face: <\/strong> In these cultures, it is considered unseemly to show too much emotion, such as displaying anger. It is best to just relax through any conflicts or irritations. In particular, avoid doing anything to cause public humiliation to anyone. This extends to criticism of service, engaging in public arguments, and &#8220;demanding to see the boss.&#8221; The people of Uzbekistan have an extreme reluctance to hurt others' feelings and thus lose face.<br><strong><br>Other Do's and Don'ts: <\/strong> In these countries, public demonstrations of affection between men and women are frowned on. The head is the most spiritual and exalted part of the body. Thus, it is not appropriate to touch anyone on the head, except for small children. (Touching the head of a small child demonstrates your protection of that child.) The feet, considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body (especially in the villages) should never be pointed at someone. Bowing your head and body slightly when walking through someone's &#8220;space&#8221; is considered a polite and necessary thing to do. Your efforts to emulate the local behavior while in Uzbekistan will be much appreciated.","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>Passport (valid for at least six months after your date of exit from Uzbekistan)<\/li><li>\nOne other picture ID, such as driver's license<\/li><li>\nE-visa for Uzbekistan<\/li><li>\nTwo photocopies of your passport photo page<\/li><li>\nTwo extra passport photo(s)<\/li><li>\nAir tickets and expense money<\/li><li>\nProof of travelers insurance, if purchased (insurance is recommended)<\/li><li>\nPrescription medication, if required (packed in your carry-on bag, not your checked baggage)<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"<ul><li>A soft-sided or hard-sided wheeled suitcase or duffel bag, with a small padlock, is recommend for this trip. Please note that porter service can be limited, meaning that trip members will have to carry their own luggage at some hotels, and\/or getting on\/off our bus, for some limited distances (usually no more than 500 to 800 yards). For this reason, wheeled luggage may be easier to move and is recommended.<\/li><li>Daypack, large enough for a rain\/wind jacket, water bottle, camera gear, and other items you want during the day<\/li><li>Small roll-up duffel if you are an avid shopper<\/li><\/ul> <br><br>IMPORTANT! Valuable or essential items such as camera equipment, prescription medications, or sturdy shoes should always be hand-carried on any flight to avoid loss or damage. Once you arrive in Uzbekistan, it may be impossible to replace these items if your luggage is delayed. <br><br><strong>Weight Limit<\/strong><br>Please note that there is a total weight limit of 44 lbs. (20 kgs.) for the checked baggage on your internal flights in Uzbekistan. Some airlines also allow an additional small carry-on that weighs no more than 11 lbs. (5 kgs.).","Custom_Clothing":"The clothing list below is provided as a guideline only; we encourage you to pack as lightly as possible. Dress on the trip is very informal, with the exception of city dinners for which you may want to dress up a little (jackets are not required for men). You should carry or wear your walking shoes on your flights to make sure they arrive with you. <br><br>People in Central Asia dress conservatively and visitors should take care to dress modestly. A flexible system of layered clothing is recommended, such as lightweight shirts and trousers and lightweight raingear. Comfortable walking shoes will carry you a long way on this trip. A lightweight fleece jacket for cooler evenings is convenient, as the air temperature in desert cools down after sunset. The places we visit are very dry and warm, with a lots of sunshine, and it can also be very windy. A sunhat and sunglasses are highly recommended. A scarf or face mask will come in handy to ward off dust during the long, dusty drives. In addition, we ask that women bring a headscarf for mosque visits. <br><br><ul><li>Wind\/waterproof lightweight rain jacket with hood<\/li><li>Fleece jacket or sweater for evenings<\/li><li>Long pants, loose-fitting and comfortable. Quick-drying synthetic fabrics are a practical choice.<\/li><li>Long-sleeved shirts. Quick-drying &#8220;travel&#8221; fabrics are ideal.<\/li><li>T-shirts<\/li><li>Hat with wide brim<\/li><li>Good walking shoes or sturdy running shoes with good traction and ankle support<\/li><li>Tevas or other sturdy sandals<\/li><li>Socks, underwear<\/li><li>Sleepwear<\/li><li>Casual city\/hotel attire<\/li><li>Headscarf for mosque visits (women only)<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li>Water bottle, 1 qt. capacity. Bottled water is available throughout the trip to re-fill<\/li><li>\nGood quality sunglasses with cases<\/li><li>\nFlashlight with extra batteries<\/li><li>\nKleenex pocket packs for &#8220;nature breaks&#8221; on drives<\/li><li>\nAssorted plastic bags to organize items in your luggage; garbage bags to use as a bag liner for rain protection<\/li><li>\nMoney belt or neck pouch. Always carry your passport, credit cards, and cash with you in a money belt or neck pouch tucked down inside your shirt or blouse.<\/li><li>\nSunglasses<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"Every trip member should bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices.<br><br><ul><li>\nSunscreen SPF 30 or higher. We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores.<\/li><li>\nLip balm with sunscreen<\/li><li>\nAspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headache, Tylenol PM for sleep<\/li><li>\n\nTopical antibiotic (such as Neosporin) for cuts, bites, or sores<\/li><li>\nInsect repellent<\/li><li>\nBlister kit. Look for the long-lasting gel-type bandages that you can apply directly on blisters, such as Band-Aid Advanced Healing Bandages or Curad Gel Multi-Day Bandages. &#8220;Liquid band-aids,&#8221; such as New-Skin, are useful because they dry rapidly to form a tough protective cover over a blister.<\/li><li>\nAnti-bacterial gel for hand washing (at least 60% alcohol to be effective)<\/li><li>\nAntihistamine such as Benadryl and cold remedy such as Sudafed<\/li><li>\nImodium for diarrhea. If you wish to bring an antibiotic for diarrhea prophylaxis, consult your physician.<\/li><li>\nPrescription medications properly labeled?bring a plentiful supply as they will be impossible to replace in Uzbekistan<\/li><li>\nSpare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>\nConverter and plug adapter kit for appliance use in hotels. Plugs have a variety of blade types. It is best to bring a plug adapter kit.<\/li><li>\nCamera, spare batteries.<\/li><li>\nReading\/writing material<\/li><li>\nLightweight binoculars<\/li><li>\nTravel clock<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","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_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_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","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 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 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. Note: Smaller groups will be in a van; for larger groups we use a comfortable bus.<br>","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":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may 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 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/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:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<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&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","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":"<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":"<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@travelexinsurance.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":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/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:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","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:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.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":"<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. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>$600 due at time of reservation <br \/>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p>","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>"}}