Uzbekistan

Khiva Fortress Tour: The Desert Castles of Khorezm
If you’re looking for a break from the madrasas and minarets of central Khiva, the neighboring Kyzylkum Desert is home to ancient fortresses that have remained largely untouched for centuries. Over 50 fortresses, collectively referred to as ‘Elliq Kala’ are scattered across the autonomous republic of Karakalpakstan. But a typical Khiva fortress tour covers three main castles: Kizil Kala,

Khiva: The Ultimate Guide
Khiva, along with Bukhara and Samarkand, is one of Uzbekistan’s three main tourist cities. But unlike its counterparts, you won’t have to travel far to see its historic attractions – they’re all densely packed within a walled enclave known as the Ichon Qala. While you can cover the highlights in a day or two, visiting

Uzbekistan’s Overlooked Paykend Archaelogical Site
Located about 60 km southwest of Bukhara, Paykend is an overlooked archaeological site that few tourists venture to see. Admittedly, I hadn’t heard of it before arriving in Bukhara, but a photo in a guidebook caught my eye. And with an extra day in town, I decided to visit. But fair warning – despite Paykend’s

Bukhara: Bahoutdin Architectural Complex, Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa & More
Bukhara is one of Uzbekistan’s top tourist cities, and for good reason. While there’s plenty to do and see within the city center, consider dedicating a half-day to visiting these lesser-known sites on Bukhara’s outskirts: the Bahoutdin Architectural Complex, Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, and the Chor Bakr Necropolis. Following this guide to each location, you can learn

Bukhara: The Ultimate Guide
Of Uzbekistan’s three major tourism hubs, Bukhara has what’s arguably the largest intact and authentic-feeling Old Town in the country. While it may lack a single attraction that can rival Samarkand’s Registan Square, Bukhara’s Old Town offers a truly immersive experience that neither Samarkand, nor ‘Disneyfied’ Khiva, can match. In this Bukhara guide, we’ll be

Top Things to Do in Termez: Uzbekistan’s Rugged Frontier
Termez, a dusty border city at the southern end of Uzbekistan, feels a world away from the colorful domes of Samarkand and Bukhara. Yet this remote outpost along the Amu Darya River – once the ancient Oxus – holds some of Central Asia’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. The top things to do in Termez featured