The Silk Road of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan went beyond all expectations - would have loved to have more time in each of the cities.

The trip was very well run with the tours and transport always smooth and on time. The guides were well informed and there were plenty of breaks and the tours weren't exhausting. The hotels were pleasant especially in Khiva and Tashkent. Our tour leader Fariddun was extremely helpful, well-organised and coped with all sorts of small and larger problems with ease and grace. He never seemed stressed or out of his depth.

Excellent tour of Uzbekistan. Took in the 3 major historic cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. Very knowledgeable local guides and tour leader.

A fascinating trip exploring the ancient Silk Road cities and glimpsing the culture of the country. Having read previous reviews I was concerned about the visit to the yurt camp and whilst there were about 50 people there it was an enlightening way to see how people had once lived in the desert. I would have preferred an earlier train journey back to Tashkent as it was dark throughout the journey so we couldn’t see the scenery and we were unable to enjoy a final meal together as a group due to the late arrival time.

Explore is fabulous. Great value, great everything. Easy to book, lovely staff and tour leaders.

Nearly everything was done to a high standard. The criticisms I had amount to: 1. One hotel did not offer tea/coffee/kettle in the room 2. English language rolling news channels not available in every hotel 3. Local guides need to speak slower, pay attention to pronunciation and cut back just a little on factual info presented 4. Overnight stay in Yurt should be cut from the schedule to leave more time in Samarkand or Tashkent. The Yurt stay seemed staged and inauthentic, sleeping quarters were noisy and food was basic. No coffee was offered.

Excellent trip but very full on! We were a bit unlucky with the temperatures as we had four days at 40 deg! Excellent location of hotels - good to be close to old cities. Not sure about the stay in the yurt though - a longish drive and a bit 'hackneyed tourist experience'. Could omit this and spend longer in one of the main towns? As ever, good tips from Explore when planning the trip - money, clothing etc.