For all of the monumental cities in Uzbekistan, there’s also a more natural side to the country. The best way to experience this is through a tour to Aydarkul Lake, with a stop in Nurata and an overnight at the Safari Yurt Camp. Nurata is famous for its large assortment of petroglyphs, the most vivid mark left behind by prehistoric peoples in the region. Additional stops take you to a fortress built by Alexander the Great and Chashma, a holy spring with wonderful views. The desert is most striking at night, with the sky awash with stars and warmth provided by a cozy fire and lively folk music. Then take a morning camel ride out to the lake, and go swimming if the weather is nice enough. For a taste of nomadic life and prehistoric history, the Aydarkul Lake Tour is the best possible tour and ideal for extra-adventurous travelers. Tour itinerary:
In the morning drive to yurt camp located in Kyzylkum desert (270 km, 5 h.). On the way stop in Nurata town and visit a local mosque with holy spring water. Continue driving to yurt camp. Stop on Nurata pass to see petroglyphs. Arrive in Safari Yurt Camp, accommodation in yurt. Camel riding and free time. In the evening dinner near the camp fire with Kazakh akin singing folk songs. Overnight in the yurt.
Meals: dinner
Meals: dinner
In the morning visit desert Aydarkul Lake. Free time on the lake.
Extras to do in the area:
Option 1. Camel ride to Aydarkul Lake through the desert (8.5 km, 3 h.). Enjoy your time on the lake and have lunch.
Cost: $30 per person for a camel and cameleer service.
Option 2. Take a short camel ride to a nearby village Dungalak (1.5 km, 30 min). Participate in baking traditional bread “non”. Take a short walk in the village to see life of locals and return to the camp.
Cost: $20 per person for a camel and cameleer service.
In the afternoon depart the yurt camp and drive to Samarkand (270 km, 5 h.)/Bukhara (250 km, 5 h.). Arrival in Samarkand/Bukhara, transfer to hotel/train station.
Meals: breakfast, lunch or picnic
- All transfers: 1-3 travellers by sedan type car; 4-8 travellers by van type car;
- Accommodation in the yurt camp;
- Full board (dinner, breakfast, lunch/picnic).
- Accommodation in Samarkand/Bukhara;
- Travel insurance.
Accommodation:
| Aydarkul - 1 night |
| Safari Yurt Camp, Aidar Yurt Camp (in a shared yurt) |
