Uzbekistan · Rural Experiences

2-Day Bukhara to Samarkand Tour with Nurata and Yurt Camp

2 Days Round trip from Nourata Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover ancient petroglyphs at Sarmishsay Gorge dating back to the Stone Age
02 Explore the historical city of Nurata and its Alexander the Great-era monuments
03 Enjoy folk music performances and storytelling around a campfire
04 Ride a camel near the yurt camp in the Kyzylkum desert setting
05 Visit a local village to observe rural Uzbek lifestyles and livestock practices
06 Swim in or stroll along the scenic lakeside, season and weather permitting

Embark on a culturally rich 2-day journey from the historical city of Bukhara to the legendary Samarkand, passing through the ancient landscapes of Nurata and the serene beauty of Lake Aydarkul. Discover Stone Age petroglyphs in Sarmishsay Gorge, explore Nurata and its Alexander the Great-era heritage, and spend a memorable night in a traditional yurt camp. Experience a camel ride, folk music and storytelling by the fire, and a visit to a nearby Uzbek village before relaxing by the tranquil waters of Lake Aydarkul.

Experience folk music and storytelling by the fire.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Cities Bukhara, Samarkand, Nurota

Languages English, French, Italian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Bukhara to Sarmishsay, Nurata and a Desert Yurt Camp

Begin with a 09:00 pick-up from your hotel in Bukhara.
Drive to Sarmishsay Gorge and explore petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age.

Continue to Nurata and visit:

Chashma Spring
Ruins of Alexander the Great's fortress
Local mosques and shrines
Proceed to the Yurt Camp near Lake Aydarkul (total drive approximately 5 hours).
Enjoy a traditional dinner at the camp.
Experience folk music and storytelling by the fire.
Take a short camel ride near the camp.

Overnight stay in a desert yurt.

Day 02

Yurt Camp, Dungalak Village and Lake Aydarkul to Samarkand

Have breakfast at the Yurt Camp.
Visit Dungalak Village to learn about local rural life and livestock farming.
Continue to Lake Aydarkul for a picnic lunch.
Enjoy leisure time at the lake:
- Swim (seasonal)
- Walk along the shoreline
- Observe local birdlife
Depart for Samarkand in the afternoon (drive approximately 5 hours).
Arrive in Samarkand and transfer to your hotel.