Today is all about exploring Tashkent!

You'll start the day by sightseeing to the Hast Imam complex (Barak-Khan and Kaffal-Shashi mausoleums (16th century)), home to the esteemed Quran of Caliph Uthman, marking the starting point of your deeper connection with Uzbekistan's splendid Islamic legacy. We'll also take you to see the new part of the city.

We'll take you for lunch at the Plov Centre where you can see the process of making Uzbekistan's national dish. Then continue with a visit to Friday Mosque to pray dhuhr and asr, before continuing our trip to Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent’s central market and possibly the best way to get introduced to Uzbek culture. You’ll have the chance to interact with the locals, see some Uzbekistan's fresh produces, and also to shop.

This evening you'll go to the airport to catch your flight to Urgench, where you will spend your first night in the magical city of Khiva.

Please note that you should have your bags packed and ready for check out in the morning. 

Overnight in Khiva.  

It's here in the Khorezm region where some of the most influential Muslim scholars of all time once lived.

Today, you'll learn more about their stories and legacy that continues to be felt even today. Al Biruni, for example, made some of the first calculations of the Earth, while Al Khwarizmi came up with the algorithm. 

You'll enjoy exploring Khiva's architecture, famous for its turquoise tiles and sandy walls. You'll have a walking tour of the oldest part of the city where you can see Kunya-Ark fortress, including Kurinish Khana (17th century); Mohammed-Amin-Khan Madrassah (19th century), Islam Khodja Minaret; Uch Avlioli (three saints) Mausoleum, Jami Mosque (18th century), and Kutluq-Murad Inaq Madrassah (19th century).

This morning you will check out of your hotel in Khiva, to travel to the heart of Islam in Uzbekistan; Bukhara. We'll drive directly to Bukhara which approximately takes 6 hours including lunch stop on the way there.

It's here where Imam al Bukhari was born in the 9th Century AD, and who today is revered as the foremost scholar sharing the life of the Prophet SAW. This UNESCO-protected oasis was also the once-prized jewel of Genghis Khan's empire, who when he saw the towering Po i Kalyan minaret, didn't dare to tear it down despite the rest of his destruction in the region. 

For a taste of local life, meander through the bustling bazaars; seek out intricate suzanis (embroidered textiles), handcrafted ceramics, and legendary Bukharan carpets. Don't miss trading domes like Toki Zargaron, housing treasures once bartered along the Silk Road. Bukhara is the place to buy high-quality, unique gifts and souvenirs, and don't be afraid to barter!

Overnight in Bukhara.

After a hearty breakfast, our local guide will walk you through the ancient streets of Bukhara, where you’ll visit some of the most important historical sites in the region’s Islamic history, including the role of Bahauddin Naqshabandi in the spread of Islam in Central Asia. Also, make a visit to Ismael Samani Mausoleum (9-10th centuries), Chor-Minor, Chashma-Ayub Mausoleums (14th century) and Registan Ensemble.

To complete your experience, we'll take you to see the process of cooking plov with the locals. 

In the afternoon, you'll have some free time. Explore the city's rich tapestry at your own pace, maybe find a nice spot to relax, or continue sightseeing — your call. You can use this time walk around the bazaar, taking some nice pictures as the sun sets. If you're interested in art, you can also watch the Uzbek traditional folk dance.

You'll stay overnight in Bukhara, giving you plenty of time to enjoy what the evening has to offer.

This morning, you'll have free time until 12:00. Enjoy the last stroll around the magnificent Bukhara before heading to the next city, Samarkand.

But before that, you're headed to Gijduvon to visit the significant madrasa of Sheikh Abdul Khaliq Gijduvoni, an important figure in Islamic history. This place isn't just educational; it's a chance to connect with centuries-old traditions.

The adventure continues with a hands-on experience at a local potter's workshop. Here, you'll see skilled artisans at work and even decorate your own piece of pottery. It's not every day you get to try your hand at an ancient art form!

By late afternoon, you'll arrive in Samarkand. Explore the city's rich tapestry at your own pace, maybe find a nice spot to relax, or continue sightseeing — your call.

You can go to the Registan Square as they have a light show at 21:00. Come early to take your best spot to see the whole square lit up with colourful lights.

Overnight in Samarkand.

After breakfast, you'll visit the complex of Imam al Maturidi, who is a famous Islamic theologian, a connoisseur of Fiqh and Mufassir.

You'll then explore the Shah-i-Zinda. It's here that the cousin of the Prophet SAW is believed to be buried, after travelling to Central Asia to spread the message. Get your camera ready because you're in for an incredible day exploring some of the most spectacular Islamic architecture in the world. We'll make a stop at Hazrati Hizr mosque and pray dhuhr there, before going for lunch. Then you'll also get to see Bibi Khanom Mosque.

We'll also visit the nearby bustling Siyob Bazaar. You can use your free time in this bazaar for some shopping galore and to sample local fruits, nuts, and pastries, like the famous Samarkandi halva. 

Overnight in Samarkand.

Today, prepare for an exhilarating road trip as we venture beyond the city limits in our off-road vehicles, bound for the breathtaking Kitab Mountain Pass.

After a morning surrounded by dramatic landscapes, we'll proceed to Shakhrisabz. Steeped in history, Shakhrisabz claims ancient roots and is notably the birthplace of Amir Timur, a figure of great significance in Uzbek history. You'll have ample opportunity to wander and absorb the age-old aura of this city, delving into its rich past and architectural splendours. You'll also visit Imam Al Bukhari Mausoleum.

After a day of exploration, we'll journey back to your Samarkand hotel, where you can spend another restful evening reflecting on the day's discoveries, or head out to enjoy the atmosphere at Registan Square and nearby cafes. 

Overnight in Samarkand.

This morning is yours to design as you please, as you have free time until 12:00 and then check-out from the hotel.

We'll visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum. You'll learn more about the history through our incredible tour guide. We'll then make a move to Registan Square, where you can set your gaze upon the grandeur of three imposing madrasahs: Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori. And it is in one of these madrasas that you will have an incredible Islamic calligraphy experience. 

This afternoon, you'll return to Tashkent in style on a bullet train.

Overnight in Tashkent.