In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great

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Guided and Escorted

Carbon neutral

15 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Ends

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Highlights

Connect with local life in comfort, with warm hospitality, and expert local guides in both Uzbekistan and Tajikistan

Follow the legacy of Alexander the Great across Central Asia, with insights into the conquests that shaped history

Step into the Silk Road story, where ornate Islamic schools (madrassahs), lively bazaars, and caravanserais recall centuries of trade in silk, spices, and ideas

Journey through diverse landscapes, from Uzbekistan’s desert cities to Tajikistan’s alpine lakes, lush valleys and high mountain passes

In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great

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Itinerary

Step back in time and follow the path of a legendary conqueror on the "In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great" tour—a 15-day journey through Uzbekistan and the Silk Road’s storied landscapes. Starting and ending in Tashkent, this adventure appeals to experienced travelers eager to discover the ancient cities and traditions that shaped Central Asia.

Visit Tashkent’s fascinating museums, then journey to Samarkand’s breathtaking Registan Square. Wander the ancient towns of Bukhara and Termez, explore vibrant bazaars, ornate mosques, and majestic palaces. The trip also traverses Tajikistan’s spectacular Fann Mountains, with a stop at the stunning alpine lake of Iskander-Kul—named after Alexander himself.

A key highlight of this tour package is its seamless fusion of natural wonders and cultural treasures, granting travelers an immersive experience along the fabled Silk Route, where history and legend converge.

day 1 - Arrive Tashkent

On arrival into Tashkent you will be met and transferred to the group hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. This evening you will meet the rest of the group for dinner.

Overnight: Hotel Milan or similar

Meals:Dinner

day 2 - To Samarkand

This morning we board the high speed train from Tashkent to the ancient city of Samarkand. We won't be able to check in to our rooms until 14:00 but we will leave our main luggage at the hotel. The rest of the day is dedicated to sightseeing of Samarkand’s major attractions such as Registan Square considered one of the wonders of the ancient world. Being the "heart" of Samarkand and city’s main square it is enclosed by three spectacular madrassah dating back to 1400s with quite inner courtyards. These huge buildings adorned with domes and minarets are intricately laid in charming azure blue glazed tiles. We will also visit the grandiose Cathedral Mosque Bibi-Khanum, nearby Siab Bazaar with its colorful stalls and Gur-Emir Mausoleum – the resting place of Timurid royal family.

Train: ~2hrs

Overnight: Ideal Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 3 - In Samarkand

After breakfast we head out for more Samarkand sightseeing, covering the remains of meridian quadrant of Ulugh Beg’ observatory which allowed Samarkand's astronomers to produce the most accurate calibration of the stars position. Their outstanding body of work comprised "Zidj -e - Kuragoni", astronomic tables featuring the most exact coordinates of 1018 stars; Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, the resting place of princesses and princes of the Timurid dynasty and aristocracy of the that period boasting unique architectural masterpieces of intricate tile patterns which turn this sanctuary into a real heaven of green turquoise and blue azure colors. Both sights are located on the ancient hill from which the city of Marakanda, once conquered by Alexander the Great, majestically dominated the area. We will also get acquainted with the Hellenistic period in the history of Samarkand exploring the exhibits of local Afrosiab Museum.

Overnight: Ideal Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 4 - To Bukhara

This morning we check out and head to the train station to board the high speed train once again, this time to Bukhara. Bukhara is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan, situated on the sacred hill, it is supposed to have been founded in the 13th Century BC during the reign of Siyavushids who came to power 980 years before the arrival of Alexander the Great. The name Bukhara originates from the Sanskrit word “vihara” which stands for “Buddhist monastery”. The city with its 140 architectural monuments was once a large commercial centre on the Great Silk Road. The old city of Bukhara consists of a maze of narrow streets, busy bazars and colorfully tailed historic landmarks mainly dating back to the Middle Age.

Train: ~1½hrs

Overnight: Kavsar Boutique Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 5 - In Bukhara

Today we continue our exploration of the ancient walled city of Bukhara. During our two days in Bukhara we'll visit the mausoleum of the founder of the Samanid dynasty the plans of which are based on the geometric pattern of a Buddhist mandala, Bukhara’s citadel belted by massive defensive walls and overlooking the Old City. We will also visit ancient mosques, madrassah and ancient domed bazaars as well as the Summer Residence of the last rulers of Bukhara located in the city’s suburb.

Overnight: Kavsar Boutique Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 6 - To Shahrisabz via Nautaka (Karshi)

Today we drive to Shakhrisabz. Along the way we will visit the sights of Nautaka (present day Karshi) located on the banks of the Limpid River (Kashkadarya). In Nautaka, Alexander the Great and his army passed two winters and planned his Indian campaign. Here we will visit Odina Madrassah, the oldest female educational establishment of the region once erected on the sight of Khan’s residence. It is now converted in little local museum. The biggest and the most beautiful mosque of the city, Kok-Gumbaz, built in XVI c. in the basement of the older Namosgokh Mosque and adorned with majolica glazed tiles. upon arrival in Shakhrisabz, we will venture out to explore the burial places of Timurid royalty in their hometown - Shakhrisabz and will explore the ruins of Tamerlan’s summer residence, the Ak-Sarai Palace (1380-1404).

Drive: ~4hrs, 265km

Overnight: Miraki resort or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 7 - Day trip to Gilan, transfer to Samarkand

Today we travel to the village of Gilan (50 km via mountain road, 2 hours). The scenic route winds up to the dam and the Gissarak Reservoir, then continues through the grand canyon of the Aksay River. Gilan is located at an altitude of 2000m above sea level and is surrounded by mountains on all sides.

According to legend (or perhaps historical fact), part of the population of Kesh (Shakhrisabz) fled here, refusing to submit to the troops of Alexander the Great. The hardworking locals cultivate small plots on steep mountain slopes using donkeys and oxen, plant orchards, grow potatoes, raise bees, and have built extensive gravity- fed irrigation canals.

We’ll explore the lifestyle and traditions of the local people, visit a village blacksmith, a watermill, the home of a local artist, and stroll through the exotic settlement. After lunch with a local family, we transfer to Samarkand (170 km, 4 hours).

Drive: ~5-6 hrs, 230km

Overnight: Malika Prime Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 8 - Samarkand to Panjakent, Tajikistan via Jartepa Border Crossing

Today we depart early for Tajikistan (40 km, 1 hour). After completing border formalities, you’ll be met by a local guide on the Tajik side. On the way to Panjakent, we stop at Sarazm – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the earliest proto- cities in Central Asia (approx. 5000 years old). After the tour, we head to the Shing River Valley to visit the famous Seven Marguzor Lakes, also known as the Seven Sisters. These picturesque lakes change color depending on the light. Equally fascinating are the exotic villages located on steep banks and in small valleys between the lakes. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at a local resident’s home. By evening, we return to Panjakent – a small town on the banks of the Zeravshan River, the ancient capital of Sogdiana, often called the “Eastern Pompeii,” which was burned during the Arab invasion in the 7th century.

Drive: ~3hrs, 120km

Overnight: Panjakent Plaza or similar

Please note: Border crossings in these regions can be different to what you are used to, and can often have delays. While we do what we can to ensure a smooth crossing our authority in this regard is limited, you will cross on foot between borders, and at times it can be uncomfortable, but necessary to be patient and your guides will be in communication throughout on both sides.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 9 - To Dushanbe, Tajikistan

This morning we depart for Dushanbe. We’ll visit the Rudaki Historical Museum, which houses artifacts from various eras, including the famous Afrasiab frescoes. We’ll also stroll through the local bazaar. Then we transfer to the capital of Tajikistan – Dushanbe (250 km, 4.5 hours). Our route follows a scenic mountain road above the valleys of the Zeravshan and Fandarya rivers. We’ll cross the Zeravshan Range via a tunnel and descend into the Varzob Valley. Upon arrival in Dushanbe, the afternoon will be at leisure.

Drive: ~4.5hrs, 250km

Overnight: Rumi Hotel Dushanbe or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 10 - In Dushanbe

With a rural hinterland of grassy pastures and snow-capped mountains visible from downtown, Dushanbe is a delightful city built around parks, lakes and fountains. Dushanbe's origins stretch back some 3,000 years though the city grew from a village into a city under Soviet rule as the capital for the Tajik Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, a part of the Uzbek USSR. Today we will spend the day in the Tajik capital and enjoy a city tour taking in Dousti Square, the Samany Monument (to the founder of the Tajik Government), Rudaki Avenue and a historical museum. This evening we’ll enjoy a dinner with traditional folklore show.

Overnight: Rumi Hotel Dushanbe or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 11 - To Lake Iskanderkul

Today we leave the city behind and transfer to the legendary Lake Iskanderkul (Alexander's lake) via the picturesque Varzob gorge and Anzob tunnel. Iskanderkul is a mountain lake of glacial origin in Tajikistan's Sughd Province. It lies at an altitude of 2,195m on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range in the Fann Mountains. Today we will hike around the lake and to the “Fann Niagara”, a 40m high waterfall. Picnic by the lake. After lunch we will drive to Saritag village where we will be acquainted with traditions and the daily life of local people.

Drive: ~3hrs, 135km

Overnight: Local village homestay

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 12 - To Khujand (Alexandria Eshata) via Istravshan

Today we set off for Khujand our route will lay through the mountain pass “Shakhristan”. Along the way we will visit the ancient city of Kiropolis, present day Istravshan, founded by Persian King Cyrus in 7th century B.C. We will explore the old city with its bazaar Kok Gumbaz Mosque (XVI) and Mug hill. After lunch we continue the drive to Khujand (Alexandria Eshata).

Drive: ~4hrs, 221km

Overnight: Khujand Deluxe Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 13 - Khujand to Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Today we will get around Khujand and visit its main sights such as Sheikh Maslikhiddin Mausoleum and Mosque (XIV-XIX c.c.), Payshambe bazaar and Country estate of Urumkhodjaev family which bears resemblance to the palace of Russian tsars in Petergof. After lunch we commence our drive to the “Oybek” border point and after completing border formalities enter into Uzbekistan.

Drive: ~3hrs, 167km

Overnight: Hotel Milan or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 14 - In Tashkent

Today we will get around Tashkent and get acquainted with its main sights: Khast-Imam( Jhazret – Imam) complex including Tillya Sheykh Mosque, Barak Khan madrassah, Muyimuborak madrassah converted in library-museum and housing the world’s oldest copy of the Koran once belonging to Caliph Osman (VII).

Overnight: Hotel Milan or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 15 - In Tashkent, trip concludes

Today after breakfast, you will be provided with transfer to the airport where your trip concludes. Hotel check-out will be at 12:00. Luggage storage will be available at the hotel should your flight depart later in the day.

Meals:Breakfast

A

AnonymousVerified Traveler

Sep 29, 2025

5.0

5.0 out of 5

A fantastic trip with an opportunity to see the best of both Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Our guide in Uzbekistan, Dilshod, was wonderful and really made our trip. He was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and really wanted us to see as much as possible. We had fabulous meals and stayed in some great hotels. We can't wait to go back and see more.

A

AnonymousVerified Traveler

Jul 15, 2025

4.0

4.0 out of 5

The trip was wonderful overall where the history, architecture and sites were breathtaking in many of the places we visited. However there are a many things that could have been done better to substantially improve the trip and overall experience. In particular the following areas: 1. The trip was advertised as "in the footsteps of alexander the great and the great silk road". the fact of the matter the trip hardly even addressed these 2 topics and was primarily an immersion in the ancient culture of Central Asia and too many visits to every Minaret and Mosque available. While that was very interesting in the beginning, it got old very quickly. 2. The cities of Bayson and Denau offered nothing at all and were a total waste of time. It would have been a lot more productive and valuable to exclude them and include the City of Termez instead. Whereas the cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Shahrisabz (to some extent), Dushanbe, Khujand, and Lake Iskanderkul were absolutely a pleasure to have had the opportunity to visit. 3. Hotels. The hotel choices by the local tour company in Uzbekistan were awful with the exception of those in Samarkand and Bukhara which were as advertised. The rest of the hotels in Uzbekistan including Tashkent were way below par in every category with very uncomfortable beds which consisted of nothing but box springs. On the other hand, the Hotels and Homestay in Tajikistan that were chosen by the local tour company there were absolutely amazing. 4. Food: The fact that the guides had to order for everyone without us even having a choice or looking at a menu was unacceptable, and frankly the food in Uzbekistan was below par in every restaurant we went to, while the restaurants and food in Tajikistan even with the food being preordered was generally good. 4. Program: The program including evening activities in Tajikistan was very well done, while the program in Uzbekistan was definitely way below expectations. 5. Border crossing: the border crossing between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan and visa versa was grueling and very painful. as we were dropped off at each border and then we had to walk for a over a mile in insane heat and going from one painful checkpoint to another and stand in what can only be called a scrum at every checkpoint rather than a queue. The experience was awful. You should have figured out a way to have the tour guides move with us from one country to another with the same tour bus rather than switching guides, drivers and busses and having to deal with a border crossing that is essentially not suited for a vacation. I would never go on a tour that would require me to do that again.

A

AnonymousVerified Traveler

Jul 15, 2025

4.0

4.0 out of 5

Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are amazing. The trip was full of both amazing history and landscapes.