Uzbekistan is a country as rich in history and culture as it is diverse. From the modern capital of Tashkent, to Silk Road gems like Samarkand and Bukhara, to breathtaking national parks and reserves, it has something to offer for every visitor’s taste. And, with affordable services available in all areas of the tourism industry, it is that much more appealing for young travellers.
1. Outdoor adventures
The Central Asian country is perfectly placed to cater to the increasing trend of outdoor adventures, with a vast array of sport tourism activities available. Given that most of the country consists of untouched natural beauty, all sport enthusiasts will certainly find something to their liking, from the vast plains covering a big part of the country to the mountainous regions offering opportunities to thrill-seekers. The country’s lakes and rivers are also perfect for anyone wishing to enjoy a day on the water.
Mountaineering, rock climbing and ice climbing are just some of the examples, with around 74 routes spread over 34 different areas in Uzbekistan, at altitudes ranging from 3,099 to 4,326 metres. The mountains also offer breathtaking backdrops for winter sports. From December to March, four main ski resorts attract a growing number of visitors each year.
2. Music, dance and food
To satisfy the thirst of entertainment, there are music festival to attend year-round. From techno DJs against the backdrop of the modern capital of Tashkent or the dried up shores of the Aral Sea, to cultural celebrations like Boysun Bahori, the International Flower Festival and Sharq Taronalari – one of the largest music and culture festivals in Central Asia, held every two years in Samarkand.
Besides festivals, there are many other avenues to explore in terms of entertainment. With some pubs and clubs open 24/7, you can very well explore the surroundings the entire day, take a nap in the evening to recharge your batteries, have a late dinner and then enjoy an entire night out. Or, for a more relaxing evening, you can enjoy a traditional dance and music show to fully immerse yourself in local culture.
Speaking of dinner, Uzbek cuisine is not to be missed, especially the national dish of plov. Sometimes also called palov or pilaf, Uzbek plov was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016. “There is a saying in Uzbekistan that guests can only leave their host’s house after palov has been offered”, UNESCO says.
3. Where to stay
With options ranging from luxury hotels to guesthouses, hostels and even yurt campsites, you will certainly find a type of accommodation suitable for your budget and style. Yurt camps are a particularly interesting option, giving a glimpse into centuries-old traditions and the way of life of locals. Some of the most famous yurt camps in Uzbekistan are: “Aydar”, located 10 kilometres from the Aydarkul Lake, “Safari”, near the city of Nurata, “Muynak”, on the shore of the Aral Sea, and “Ayaz-Kala”, near the settlement of Ayaz-Kala.
And, of course, make sure not to leave without a souvenir. From shopping centres packed with international brands as well as local manufacturers, to street vendors displaying their arts and crafts, there are enough shopping opportunities for any taste. For the best memory of your trip, make sure to take with you a traditional Uzbek accessory, like a skullcap or silk scarf.
