Duration
2 days 1 night
Guide
Optional
price
From: 100 $ per person
Overview
Escape the city and experience the wild beauty of Uzbekistan’s desert on this overnight adventure to Aydarkul Lake. Spend a magical night under the starlit sky, surrounded by the vast Kyzylkum Desert, and immerse yourself in the nomadic way of life.
This unique desert camping tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure. As you journey towards Aydarkul Lake, you’ll witness the untamed wildlife of the desert, visit ancient Silk Road sites, and explore centuries-old fortresses that date back to the time of Alexander the Great’s invasion.
By nightfall, settle into a traditional yurt camp, where you can enjoy an authentic Uzbek dinner, listen to folk music by the fire, and gaze at the dazzling Milky Way far from the city lights. The next morning, wake up to a peaceful sunrise over the lake, enjoy a refreshing swim, and savor a delicious breakfast in the heart of nature before returning to Samarkand.
🔹 Why You’ll Love This Tour
✔ Sleep under the desert stars in a comfortable, traditional yurt
✔ Explore the history of ancient fortresses and Silk Road monuments
✔ Experience the Kyzylkum Desert wildlife—from camels to rare birds
✔ Enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner & live music around a campfire
✔ Swim, relax, or take a camel ride by the stunning Aydarkul Lake
✔ Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts
This one-of-a-kind desert experience is perfect for those looking to explore the hidden gems of Uzbekistan beyond its cities. Book your Aydarkul Lake adventure today and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the wild heart of Central Asia! 🏜✨
Itinerary
🗓 Day 1: Samarkand → Nurata
Admission tickets are not included. Lunch.
🚗 Morning: Depart from Samarkand to Nurata
- Drive east towards the ancient oasis of Nurata.
- Visit Alexander the Great’s fortress ruins – a strategic stronghold built in 327 BC.
- Explore Chashma Mosque, a revered pilgrimage site with a natural spring.
- See an ancient irrigation system, demonstrating the advanced water engineering of past civilizations.
🗓 Day 1: Nurata→ Yurt Camp
⛺ Overnight Stay: Traditional Yurt Camp. Dinner.
🥘 Afternoon: Drive to Yanghi-Gazgan & Yurt Camp Stay
- Continue to Yanghi-Gazgan, a desert settlement known for its traditional yurts.
- Check-in to a nomadic-style yurt camp in the Kyzylkum Desert.
- Enjoy dinner under the stars, accompanied by Uzbek folk music and a bonfire.
Meeting Point & Pickup Info
Hotel Pickup & Drop-off: Available for free within Samarkand city center.
- Pickup from your hotel (if staying in Samarkand)
- OR Meet at Registan Square Entrance
⏳ Departure Times:
- Morning Tour: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Afternoon Tour: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
💡 Need a different start time? Let us know and we’ll adjust to your schedule!
Pricing & Booking
| Number of People | Price per person $ |
|---|---|
| 1 | $ 260 |
| 2 | $ 320 |
| 3 | $ 390 |
🔹 Discounts available for group bookings (4+ people)
🔹 Children under 10 join for FREE
📅 Availability: Daily departures
📍 Meeting Point: Hotel pickup (or meet at Registan Square)
🚗 Drop-off Location: Back to hotel or city center
What's Included
- Accommodation: overnight in the yurt
- Transport: Samarkand - Nuratau - Yurt Camp
- Meals: Traditional Uzbek dinner, breakfast at the camp, and picnic lunch at Aydarkul Lake.
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Activities: Camel ride options (sunset on Day 1 and optional sunrise on Day 2), campfire cultural show.
- Admission tickets.
- Photo, video fees to sights.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended but not provided.
- Additional Activities: Optional excursions not specified in the itinerary unless arranged in advance.
- Gratuities: Tips for the driver, guide, and camp staff are not included.
Tour Highlights
🏕 Stay in a Traditional Yurt – Experience the authentic lifestyle of Central Asian nomads by sleeping in a cozy, hand-decorated yurt under a sky full of stars.
🐪 Camel Riding in the Desert – Ride across the dunes like the ancient Silk Road traders, exploring the vast Kyzylkum Desert from a unique perspective.
🏞 Aydarkul Lake Oasis – Discover the shimmering blue waters of Aydarkul Lake, an unexpected paradise in the middle of the desert, perfect for swimming, fishing, and relaxing by the shore.
🔥 Bonfire & Folk Music – Enjoy an evening under the stars with a warm bonfire, traditional Uzbek folk music, and storytelling by local nomads.
🍽 Delicious Uzbek Cuisine – Savor authentic dishes such as plov, shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and fresh fish from Aydarkul Lake, prepared in a traditional way.
🌅 Sunrise & Sunset Views – Witness the breathtaking transformation of the desert as the sun rises and sets over the endless dunes.
FAQ
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing:
✅ Comfortable clothing (light for the day, warm for the night)
✅ A light jacket or sweater (desert temperatures drop at night)
✅ Comfortable walking shoes
✅ Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
✅ Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, towel, etc.)
✅ Camera or smartphone for stunning desert and night-sky photography
✅ Power bank (as electricity access may be limited)
How cold does it get at night?
The desert can be warm during the day (25-35°C / 77-95°F), but at night, temperatures can drop to 10-15°C (50-60°F), depending on the season. It’s best to bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable.
Are there bathroom facilities at the yurt camp?
Yes, the yurt camp has basic but clean shared bathroom facilities with running water and toilets. However, showers may not always be available in remote desert camps.
Is the tour suitable for children and elderly travelers?
Yes! This tour is family-friendly and can be adapted for children and seniors. The activities, such as camel rides and sightseeing, are generally light and enjoyable for all ages. However, please let us know in advance if you need any special assistance or private accommodation.
Is the food halal and vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! All meals provided are halal, and we can accommodate vegetarian and vegan dietary preferences. Please mention any food allergies or dietary needs at the time of booking.
Is there electricity and WiFi at the yurt camp?
Electricity may be available for basic needs (charging phones, lights, etc.), but WiFi is usually not available in remote desert camps. We recommend bringing a power bank if you need extra charging.
What historical sites will we visit?
Along the way, we will explore:
🏛 Ancient fortresses and ruins dating back to the Alexander the Great era
🏜 Old Silk Road caravanserais that once welcomed travelers centuries ago
🕌 Other hidden historical and cultural sites depending on availability and time
Can I swim in Aydarkul Lake?
Yes! Aydarkul Lake is a beautiful and clean natural lake where you can swim. The water is generally calm and refreshing, making it a great way to cool off after a desert journey.
Is it safe to travel to the desert?
Yes! This tour is completely safe, and our experienced guides ensure your comfort and security throughout the trip. The desert roads are well-traveled, and our vehicles are equipped for long-distance travel.
What happens if the weather is bad?
This tour runs in most weather conditions, as rain is rare in the desert. However, in extreme conditions (heavy storms or sandstorms), we may reschedule or offer an alternative experience for safety reasons.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours may be subject to a partial fee to cover pre-arranged costs.
Can I extend my stay in the desert?
Absolutely! If you’d like to spend an extra night in the desert, we can arrange it, along with additional activities like horseback riding, hiking, or local village visits. Just let us know when booking!
| Notes |
|---|
| **"This is a private tour with your personal guide, ensuring an exclusive experience without other participants.You can choose the tour's start time. We also offer this tour for air and train passengers—our guide will be there to meet you upon arrival at the station."** |
Additional Info
-
Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 hours of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
-
Stroller accessible
- The tour runs rain or shine—bring an umbrella or hat for summer heat.
Why Choose Us?
✔ Expert Guides: Local historians & certified guides with deep knowledge.
✔ Seamless Experience: No waiting in ticket lines – we handle everything!
✔ Customizable Options: Want to add a bazaar tour or local food tasting? Just ask!
📩 Contact us at booking.jahongir.travel@gmail.com or WhatsApp +998 94 077 13 03 or Book Online