Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan:
Markets & Minarets
Explore the markets, mosques, minarets and teahouses of oasis towns on the fringes of the Kyzyl Kum and Kara Kum deserts. Here on the bridge between East and West, spiritual beliefs were the greatest commodities to flow along trade routes, and civilizations blossomed amidst austere natural beauty.
Daily Itinerary
Days 1-2: Tashkent
The journey begins in Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent. Wander its Chorsu Bazaar, a huge open market near a 16th century madrassah. Take a ride on the Tashkent Metro, and visit the studio of one of Uzbekistan's master craftsmen, an expert in ancient Central Asian ceramics.
Days 3-4: Samarkand
Set off overland to Samarkand. Tamerlane conquered Samarkand in the 14th century, and transformed it into one of the most beautiful cities along the Silk Road.
Days 5-7: Bukhara
Follow the road to Bukhara, where the city center is a historical preserve. From the peaceful Lyab-i-Khauz Plaza, with its reflecting pool surrounded by ancient mulberry trees, to domed bazaars and stately mosques, Bukhara embodies the soul of pre-Soviet Central Asia.
Days 8-9: Khiva
Continue on to Khiva, today a living museum. Roam the narrow winding streets near our hotel just beyond the walls of the old town.
Days 10-13: Tashauz, Ashkabad
In Turkmenistan, marvel at the meeting of ancient traditions and modern mores at Ashkabad's Tolkuchka Bazaar, one of Central Asia's best. Barter for jewelry and carpets, sealing each bargain Turkmen fashion, with a handshake. Toast the journey's end at a festive farewell dinner.
Trip Details
| Length of Trip: |
13 Days |
| Departures in 2008: |
November 3-15* |
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*Also available as a Flexible Essential tour with weekly departures every Monday in 2008 |
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| Land Tour Cost |
|
| 2-16 travelers |
$3,695 |
| Single Supplement |
$550 |
|
MIR Signature Features
- Visit the private studio of a local ceramics master and learn to identify
different regional designs
- Sample savory plov and other traditional Uzbek specialties as a dinner guest
in a
private home
- Sense the grandeur of the Registan, central square of legendary Samarkand
- Stroll the narrow winding streets of Khiva, one of the best-preserved Khanate
capitals
- Enjoy the contrasts of Turkmenistan, where bushy-bearded desert nomads mingle
with suited businessmen
Map
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| Days 1-2: |
Tashkent |
|
| Day 3: |
drive to Samarkand |
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| Day 4: |
Samarkand |
|
| Day 5: |
drive to Bukhara via Shakhrisabze |
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| Days 6-7: |
Bukhara |
|
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| Day 8: |
drive to Khiva |
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| Day 9: |
Khiva |
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| Day 10: |
drive to Tashauz, fly to Ashkabad |
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| Days 11-13: |
Ashkabad |
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Suggested Extensions
Combine this tour with Ancient Persia - Modern Iran or Essential Iran.
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