Bukhara
Today the atmosphere of a Silk Road city is once again returning to Bukhara. Narrow alleyways, sectioned by dark imposing heavy carved…
Back in the early ‘90s, Steppes Travel was the only company in the UK to be offering trips to Uzbekistan. As such, our expertise in this region is unrivalled.
Renowned for its silk route cities, Uzbekistan is for anyone who wishes to get to the heart of Central Asia. Despite the modernisation, the traditional chapan (or coat) and long afternoon battles of chess and backgammon are still very much a common sight. With excellent hotels and small guesthouses brimming with character, direct flights from London, excellent high-speed train routes and no visa required, exploring the UNESCO sites and architectural gems of this silk route destination has never been easier.
Blue domed mosques and ancient silk road cities are the shining stars in Uzbekistan, offering visitors a snapshot into a time of epic trading journeys between Asia and Europe. Many of the buildings date back to the 13th and 15th centuries; one can only wonder at the skills of the craftsmen who laboured with such primitive tools. The markets are a delight and a photographic paradise, while outside the cities, the dusty, isolated villages with their flocks of woolly, fat-tailed sheep have changed little over the years.
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is in spring, late March to May, and in autumn, September to early November. Summers here can be sweltering, with temperatures climbing to 37°C and winters can be freezing. Temperatures steadily climb in spring as the landscape begins to blossom, making this a wonderful time to explore. It is typically warm and dry in autumn, making it possible to enjoy the heat without it being uncomfortably hot.
In eastern Uzbekistan lies the fertile valley of Fergana. Shielded by mountains, this conservative region is an ethnic melting pot where mosques and bazaars are alive with activity. As the centre for silk production, it was once a crucial link on the Silk Road. From the Fergana Valley, it is a short drive to cross the border into Kyrgyzstan which combines beautifully with Uzbekistan, showcasing mountainous landscapes and nomadic culture.
Tajikistan and Turkmenistan also combine well and offer diverse scenery, ranging from mountains to deserts and lakes, as well as a thriving felt-making industry and fascinating archaeological sites.
Choose from our collection of curated experiences that will help us to create a bespoke and memorable journey for you.
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Send us an enquiry
Complete our enquiry form and start your next journey.
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?