Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has much to offer the adventure traveller from ancient history, culture and traditional bazaars, to beautiful landscapes. At the heart of the ancient Silk Road that ran from China through the Middle East to Rome, redspokes Uzbekistan cycling holiday re-traces the footsteps of travellers and traders from a time when Uzbekistan was a well-trodden path.

Beginning in Tashkent and ending in Bukhara we travel through a desert landscape. We transfer out of the Uzbek capital to Lake Turzkan and begin cycling along the Pistalitau mountain ridge. Our route continues through scenic valley, passing stone and mudbrick houses towards beautiful Sob gorge before we tackle the toughest mountain climb of our trip to reach Fazilman Lake. At the end of our cycling we transfer to historic Bukara, with a rest day to enjoy the sights and the opportunity to visit magical Samarkand as we return to Tashkent by train. The tour then proceeds to Khiva, a stunning oasis city featuring historic walls, minarets, and distinctive clay structures.

Uzbekistan can truly be described as a nation of contrasts. The double landlocked country is surrounded by other landlocked countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Turkmenistan). There are huge expanses of desert, pockets of verdant fertile valley and semi-arid grassland; the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains mark the south and eastern borders. In the 13^th Century the country fell under Mongol rule, followed by a period of independent emirates and khanates of Bukhara, Kokand and Samarkand before becoming a part of Russia in 1865, and then the Soviet Union, most recently emerging as an independent nation in 1991.

There is little in the way of rain fall, summertime is very hot (+40), and winters extremely cold (-5). Spring and Autumn are the best times to visit. redspokes' Uzbekistan itinerary is timed to run during optimal climactic conditions for adventure cycling.

On redspokes Uzbekistan cycle holiday you will experience mesmerizing scenery, diverse historic and modern architecture, from the columns and intricate patterns of mosques and madrassahs to Christian churches and temples, and enjoy classic Uzbek cuisine. 

NB: There are a variety of challenging terrains to navigate, each presenting its own set of obstacles. River crossings are part of the journey, where riders must navigate across flowing waters. Gorges with stones create a rugged environment that demands careful maneuvering. Moreover, rough bitumen and gravel further test bikers' skills.

Although it is our intention to operate the itinerary as detailed below, it may be necessary to make some changes as a result of climatic conditions, alterations to flight schedules or other operational factors.