There were plenty of contrasts during our trip through Uzbekistan! The carefully chosen route passed into the mountains and across plains, and often there was hardly a building in sight, let alone a village. Coming to remote settlements we were made really welcome – cyclists are not common. Once we reached the bigger towns there was the bustle of buses, motorbikes, donkey carts and so on, whilst the travel for the classic tourism sites (Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent) was by High Speed Train. This was my fourth redspokes trip, and as on previous ones the support was really good. Our local guide filled in gaps in our knowledge, and the crew was on hand for the food stops during the day and to give any mechanical help. After a day’s riding, arriving at the camping place with the facilities set up and the afternoon tea on the go, was great. Such a variety of food, too; freshly prepared with little repetition, and there was always provision for me, a vegetarian. A memorable tour for all the right reasons.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Key Places
- Essential Info
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Uzbekistan
The Silk Route
The redspokes Uzbekistan cycling holiday is a journey through the heart of Central Asia, blending adventurous riding with rich Silk Road heritage. Beginning in Tashkent, the route heads into the remote Nuratau Mountains, where cyclists traverse rocky ridgelines, wildflower meadows and quiet mountain villages along ancient trading routes once travelled by caravans.
After days of challenging terrain and wild camps beneath desert skies, the journey shifts to cultural exploration in the legendary cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. Here, dazzling Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars and centuries of history provide a striking contrast to the rugged landscapes. This tour delivers physical challenge, cultural immersion and a rare opportunity to ride through one of the world’s most storied regions.
Key Places – Uzbekistan
Tashkent
Uzbekistan’s capital provides a fascinating introduction to Central Asia. A city where Soviet-era architecture sits alongside ancient Islamic monuments, Tashkent offers a blend of old and new, with bustling bazaars, leafy boulevards, and impressive religious sites.
Highlights include the Khast Imam Complex, Kukeldash Madrassah, and the colourful Chorsu Bazaar, where traders have gathered for centuries. It’s the perfect place to begin discovering the rich history and culture of the Silk Road.
Nuratau Mountains & Ortacheku Rocks
Leaving the city behind, the route heads towards the Nuratau Mountains, a beautiful and less-visited region of rocky ridges, open valleys and remote villages. The Ortacheku Rocks provide a striking introduction to this wild landscape, where dramatic stone formations rise from the dry hills and the pace of life feels far removed from the capital.
Cycling here reveals a quieter side of Uzbekistan, with rural roads, traditional settlements and wide views across the foothills. It is a rewarding contrast to the famous cities that come later, showing the country’s natural beauty and village life at a more intimate pace.
Uhum Village, Sob Gorge & Fazilman Lake
Uhum Village sits in the heart of the Nuratau region, known for its mountain scenery, traditional hospitality and peaceful rural atmosphere. The surrounding area is rich in walking and riding routes, with walnut groves, stone houses, grazing animals and views across the hills.
The route continues through Sob Gorge and towards Fazilman Lake, bringing together some of the tour’s most scenic natural landscapes. This section offers a memorable mix of rugged tracks, quiet valleys, mountain communities and open highland views — a beautiful reminder that Uzbekistan’s appeal reaches far beyond its Silk Road monuments.
Bukhara
Bukhara is one of Central Asia’s great Silk Road cities, a place of madrasahs, minarets, caravanserais and atmospheric old streets. For centuries, it was a major centre of trade, religion and learning, and today its historic core remains one of the most evocative places in Uzbekistan.
A rest day in Bukhara allows time to explore at a relaxed pace. Highlights include the Poi Kalyan complex, the Ark Fortress, trading domes and shaded squares where cafés and workshops continue the city’s long tradition of craftsmanship. After days of rural riding, Bukhara is a spectacular cultural reward.
Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the legendary names of the Silk Road, famous for its grand architecture, turquoise domes and monumental squares. Registan Square, framed by three magnificent madrasahs, is one of the most impressive sights in Central Asia and a fitting finale to the main journey.
The optional extension to Khiva adds another extraordinary layer to the tour. Khiva’s walled old city, Itchan Kala, feels like an open-air museum, with minarets, palaces, mosques and narrow lanes enclosed within ancient mud-brick walls. Together, Samarkand and Khiva showcase the splendour, artistry and deep history that make Uzbekistan such a remarkable destination.
Optional Extension: Khiva
For those taking the extension, Khiva offers perhaps the most complete Silk Road city in Central Asia. Encircled by imposing mud-brick walls, its perfectly preserved old town feels like an open-air museum, with minarets, palaces, and madrassahs around every corner.
Walking through the narrow streets of Khiva is like stepping back several centuries, making it a remarkable way to conclude a journey across Uzbekistan.
Itinerary – Uzbekistan
redspokes Uzbekistan tour begins in Tashkent. You will be met on arrival and transferred to the group hotel. This afternoon you have time to explore the Uzbek capital on a guided walking and vehicle tour. Tashkent is Central Asia’s largest city, major sites of interest include: Kukeldash Madrassah, Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, Barak Khan Madrassah, Mosque on Khast Imam Square and Chor-Su – oriental market (handicraft bazaar). This evening we will have group introductions and a trip briefing.
Accommodation: Hotel (D)
After breakfast we transfer by vehicle to Lake Tuzkan, part of the man-made Aydar-Arnasay system of brackish water lakes, which covers an area of 4,000 km². The lakes are the unintentional by-product of Soviet planning. The area is sparsely populated, only inhabited by a few fishermen and shepherds. After lunch we begin cycling along the shore on good dirt road following the Pistalitau ridge. Over the pass we continue on to Ortacheku Rocks. We can take a walk this evening to the peak to enjoy views of the mountains. If the weather is fine you will witness a spectacular sight from our campsite, as the Ortacheku rocks glow to a fiery orange in the sun set.
Cycling Distance: 36.1 km (22.4 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 580m (1,905ft)
Cycling Descent: 150m (505ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Today, our cycling journey takes us across the scenic Nuratau Ridge, winding through charming countryside and mountain villages adorned with traditional stone houses. We begin our ride with a steady 5km climb, circling around the striking Ortacheku Rocks before descending into the welcoming village of Yangikishlak. From there, we continue on a challenging series of climbs spanning the next 20km, leading us to a much-needed lunch stop.
In the afternoon, we pedal along 46km of sealed road, heading towards the quaint hamlet of Hayot. The final leg of our day covers a 16km uphill stretch, with the last portion taking us along a dirt road to reach Hayot village. Nestled in the Nurata Mountains, this route once provided safe passage along the ancient Silk Road, encouraging the settlement of small communities in its valleys and foothills. The village name, “Hayot,” translates to “life,” and legends tell of its vital springs that sustained people during droughts. Among its historical treasures is the centuries-old Shakhi-Kurgan fortress.
Our day concludes with a warm welcome at Ulugbek’s guesthouse, a delightful family-run retreat. The rooms are simple yet spotless, and clean showers and toilets are conveniently located in the hallway. Set at the edge of the mountains, the guesthouse offers a picturesque view, complete with a babbling mountain stream just outside. Our gracious hosts will make us feel at home, with comfortable traditional mattresses to sleep on and fresh, locally prepared meals to enjoy.
Cycling Distance: 68km (42 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 706m (2,316ft)
Cycling Descent: 429m (1,407ft)
Accommodation: Homestay (B,L,D)
Today we set off from the village cycling downhill for the first 12km along the Narutau ridge, enjoying a beautiful ride along Sentabsay valley dirt road and onto Sob gorge. We have a flat stretch for the next 12km before we begin a climb on rocky path to the pass in the shadow of towering Gaukum peak before undertaking an amazing long descent through the picturesque Nuratau Mountains with views of mountain villages and far in the distance, Aydarkul Lake. There are shady walnut trees and pastures of wild grasses and flowers around us. As we cycle we pass farmers bringing fodder or firewood on donkeys from the mountains down to their villages.
We stop at beautiful Fazilman Mountain Lake (1640m) for lunch. In the summer months locals move their yurts near to the lake to grow vegetables on the fertile plateau around the water. This afternoon we continue downhill to Aktash village in the foothills of Tien Shan. The area enjoys a mild climate and lush vegetation with low dome shaped trees resembling a primeval forest. At the centre of the village are the ruins of an ancient city. The area Aktash, meaning ‘white city’, was once mined for the characteristic white rock. We camp tonight near Aktash village.
Cycling Distance: 64.8km (40.26 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 1,436 (4,711ft)
Cycling Descent: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Today our Uzbekistan tour continues as we set out on dirt road cycling through a landscape of huge boulders, transformed by the elements into the prehistoric sculptures; the mounds rest in green mountain pastures. Picturesque local dwellings are discreetly secluded from view and obscured by these monuments. After lunch, we cycle further along the Urganchy River as far as Saykechar village. From here we continue riding on sandy road across the valley towards Aktau ridge and bike on to Chuya village of with a final short stretch of cycling along surfaced road (33 km).
Cycling Distance: 49.5km (31 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 447m (1,466ft)
Cycling Descent: 692m (2,270ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Today we will ascend to the Lyangar pass, cycling a climb of 300 m over 5.5 km. We pause at Lyangar village to enjoy wonderful views of mountains and the valley. Back on the bikes we continue cycling along the upper part of the Aktau Range, passing a disused marble mine. From here we descend cycling down through the valley to reach Maidan village, we’ll be riding alongside a tributary of Maydansay River, enjoying cool breezes. We stay tonight in a riverside camp.
Cycling Distance: 38.3km (23.8 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 1005m (3,275ft)
Cycling Descent: 1,070 (3,515ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Today we will cycle a 24km stretch of bike trail. We begin with a ride along the southern slopes of the Aktau ridge. The trail ascends through small settlements as we bike up to the plateau. We make a steep descent cycling into the picturesque mountain village Aktepa, set in the thick forest greenery. From here we ride on following mountain river with shallow fords to reach Chinar village.
Cycling Distance: 23.8km (15 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 499m (1,637ft)
Cycling Descent: 573m (1,879ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B.L.D)
After breakfast, departing Chinar we cycle up to the mountain plateau towards Djunaty Peak. From here we cycle to Chash-Tapa settlement, here our cycling ends. We pack up the bikes and drive to Bukhara.
Cycling Distance 24km (15 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 160m (525ft)
Cycling Descent: 410m (1,325ft)
Accommodation: Cottages (B,L,D)
Today we have time to explore the ancient city of Bukhara. Built on a sacred mount it is one of Uzbekistan’s oldest urban settlements, founded in the 13th C. There is a rich array of historic buildings to visit in the old town. This afternoon you can wander here through a maze of narrow alleyways where traditional craftsmen sell their wares. After the many days of cycling and camping you could treat yourself to the luxury of a hammam (traditional spa).
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
We take the afternoon high speed train to Samarkand and after we’ve checked in to our hotel we have time for a wander around this city of ancient monuments. No visit to Samarkand would be complete without a stop at the Siab Bazaar. The oriental market buzzes with atmosphere. It was once a key strategic point on the Silk Road.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Today there will be a guided city tour of Samarkand’s key historic monuments including Registan Square, heart of the old city where you will find Tamerlane’s mausoleum, the Gur-e Amir. We take a late afternoon train to Tashkent, and stay the night here.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
This morning marks the end of the tour, with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Essential Info – Uzbekistan
- Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run
- Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received
- Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed
Tour Status Definitions
- Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
- Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
- Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
- Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
- Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
- Fully Booked – No places remaining
Booking & Payments
- A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
- Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
- Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
- By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)
Small Group Note
For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.
Fully supported cycling holiday
- Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
- Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
- Sleeping tents, shower tent, toilet tent, sleeping mats, sleeping bags and camping/kitchen team for camping nights
- Train ticket from Bukhara to Samarkand
- Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
- Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
- English-speaking local guide(s)
- Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs
Meal Key (used in the itinerary)
- B = Breakfast
- L = Lunch
- D = Dinner
- Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
- Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.
- International flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips for guides and support staff
- Bike hire
- Cycle helmets
- Single room supplements
- Optional Khiva extension at the end of the tour
Tour Start
- Start location: Tashkent
- Airport transfers provided on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
- Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)
Tour End
- End location: Tashkent
- Airport transfers provided if departing on the final tour day
- Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost
Flights
- International flights are not included
- We are happy to advise on suitable arrival and departure airports
- If you are considering independent travel before or after the tour, you should be aware of the following requirements:
Registering with the authorities
- You must register with the local district OVIR (Department of Foreign Travel and Exit) within 3 days of your arrival. Saturdays and Sundays count as part of the 3-day period. If you travel to another city and plan to stay for longer than 3 days there, you’ll need to register again.
- If you’re staying at a hotel, the staff will register you. If you’re staying in a private house, your host should register you with their local district OVIR or on the electronic registration system, Emehmon. Tourist tax is usually included in the hotel bill, and private hosts pay the tourist tax on behalf of the guest.
- If you’re travelling in Uzbekistan in a camper van or staying in tents and camping, you must register yourself. Register online through the electronic registration system, Emehmon, within 3 days of arrival. When registering online, you’ll have to pay a tourist tax charge for each day of your stay. At the moment you can only pay the tourist tax online with an Uzbek debit card in local currency.
- The authorities will require a full record of where you’ve been in Uzbekistan upon departure. If you are unable to account for your whereabouts, or fail to get registered, you could get a fine for each day that is missing or late and possibly be deported.
Optional Khiva Extension
- If you’re joining the Khiva extension, we recommend booking a multi-destination flight as follows:
- Inbound: Tashkent
- Outbound: Urgench (the closest airport to Khiva)
- Please note: International flights and the internal flight to Khiva are not included in the tour price.
- This is one of redspokes’ most adventurous tours, combining simple hotels, rural guesthouses and multiple nights of wild camping in remote mountain regions.
- The journey begins and ends in comfortable city hotels in Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand, but the heart of the tour lies in the Nuratau and Aktau mountain ranges, where options are rustic and chosen for their spectacular locations rather than facilities.
- Across the 12-day itinerary you will stay in:
- 5 nights in hotels (Tashkent ×2, Bukhara ×2, Samarkand ×1)
- 1 night in a simple village homestay (Uhum Village)
- 5 nights camping in remote mountain valleys (Ortacheku Rocks, Aktash, Chuya, Maidan, Chinar)
- 1 night in simple cottages (Chash-Tapa / Bukhara outskirts)
- Camping nights are set in beautiful, secluded landscapes with full support — tents, mattresses and meals provided.
- Facilities are basic (no permanent bathrooms) but the settings are unforgettable.
- The homestay night in Uhum offers simple but clean shared facilities and warm Uzbek hospitality, with traditional mattresses and home-cooked food.
- Hotels in the historic Silk Road cities offer a welcome contrast, providing private bathrooms, comfortable beds and modern amenities after the remote cycling stages.
- Most meals are included in your trip price, except on non-cycling days or as specified otherwise.
Please check the itinerary for exact details. - Have dietary requirements? Let us know at the time of booking.
Most diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
Uzbek Cuisine
Uzbekistan’s cuisine is hearty and flavourful — with noodles, breads, and mutton as common staples.
Typical Dishes
- Plov – The national dish made with rice, meat, carrots, onions — often with chickpeas or sultanas.
- Shurpa – A soup with large pieces of fatty meat and vegetables.
- Lagman & Noirin – Noodle-based dishes served as soup or main.
- Samsa – Pastry pockets filled with meat.
- Dimlama – A rich meat and vegetable stew.
- Shaslik Kebabs – Skewered meat often served as a main.
Desserts & Drinks
Desserts are rare; meals often end with:
- Fresh fruit
- Compot (fruit drink)
- Nuts & halvah
Popular drinks:
- Green tea – The national drink, served without milk or sugar
- Black tea – Favoured in Tashkent
- Ayran – Chilled yoghurt drink, especially in summer
- Wine – More common here than in many Muslim countries due to Uzbekistan’s secular nature
Uzbek Hospitality & Table Traditions
- Meals begin with tea — the less tea you’re served, the more honoured you are as a guest
- Food is served on a dastarkhan (decorated tablecloth)
- Patyr bread is highly symbolic: the eldest family member breaks it first
- Professional male chefs, known as Oshpaz, are respected for preparing plov
Support Vehicle
- Two or three support vehicles (depending on participant numbers) accompanies the group throughout the tour
- Transports main luggage between overnight stops
- Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
- Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles
On-Ride Support
- Guides carry tools for minor repairs
- You only need a small daypack while riding
Helmet Policy
- Helmets are mandatory while cycling
- Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
- You must bring your own helmet
For this tour, we provide Giant Talon 3 mountain bikes in a full range of sizes.
What’s Included with Bike Hire
- Standard flat pedals
- Basic spares and mechanical support
Customising Your Bike
- You may bring your own pedals (SPD / clip-in)
- You may bring your own saddle if preferred
- Our guide will help fit pedals and saddles on arrival
The local currency in Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). All purchases must be made in som—foreign currencies are not accepted in shops, restaurants, or hotels.
What to Bring
We recommend bringing:
- Around £200 / $270 in your local currency for exchange
- A Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card for ATM access and backup
- Travelers from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand should bring USD or Euros, as these are widely accepted and offer the best exchange options in Uzbekistan.
Where to Exchange
- You can exchange money or withdraw cash on arrival at Tashkent International Airport.
- Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate expenses
- Better rates can be found at licensed exchange offices and ATMs in the city
- Your redspokes guide will assist you with locating trustworthy exchange services and ATMs throughout the tour.
Staff Tipping
- Tipping is an accepted part of everyday life, and although it is always at your discretion, you will be expected to tip to reward service. 4USD per day per person for the guide and team at the end of the tour is recommended.
- It is customary for this to be collected up and given to your guide who will distribute it amongst the team. Unfortunately, there is usually a hierarchy for the division between guides, helpers and drivers.
- Bike hire
- Single room/tent supplement
- Extra nights before or after the tour
- Additional airport transfers
- Optional excursions such as Khiva extension
- Rest-day activities
This tour is best suited for mountain bikes with knobbly or semi-slick tyres to handle mixed terrain comfortably.
Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:
- All bearings are properly greased
- Wheel spokes are correctly tensioned
- Gear and brake cables are functioning well
- All nuts and bolts are tightened securely
- Chain, tyres and quick-release clamps are checked
- New inner tubes are installed
- Wheel rims are not excessively worn
- If you are unsure, ask your local bike shop to carry out a pre-tour inspection.
What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:
- Multi-tool
- Tyre levers
- Pump
- Spare inner tubes
- Spare spokes
- Chain links or quick links
- Spare brake pads (ensure compatibility with disc or rim brakes)
- Any specialist tools, fluids or parts specific to your bike, such as a bleed kit.
Travelling with your bike
- Your bike will need to be packed within your luggage allowance. A bike packed in a cardboard box typically weighs between 15–20 kg, and some airlines may charge excess baggage fees.
- If you would prefer not to travel with your own bike, bike hire is available — simply request this when booking.
- Solo travellers are very welcome
- Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
- We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
- Single rooms/tents are usually available for an additional charge
- You must hold a valid passport in order to travel. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return from any overseas destination.
- Visa and entry requirements for most countries can and do change from time to time and so we strongly recommend that you consult the government travel website for where your passport was issued.
- For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website for up to date information about entry requirements for Uzbekistan. The website also provides vaccination advice as well as the option to sign up for Alerts so that you are aware if requirements have changed.
- Uzbekistan E-Visa Information: For most of our international customers, Uzbekistan offers a convenient e-visa system, making the visa application process straightforward and accessible.
- ✅ Who needs a visa?
You can check whether you need a visa on the official Uzbekistan e-visa portal. - Please travel with the same passport that you used for your e-visa application and also carry a printed copy of your e-visa with you.
- On our tour dates, our local team will register you with the local authorities for all hotel, camping and ger stays.
- For those considering independent travel before or after the tour, please be aware of the following:
- You must register with the local district OVIR (Department of Foreign Travel and Exit) within 3 days of your arrival. Saturdays and Sundays count as part of the 3-day period. If you travel to another city and plan to stay for longer than 3 days there, you’ll need to register again.
- If you’re staying at a hotel, the staff will register you. If you’re staying in a private house, your host should register you with their local district OVIR or on the electronic registration system, Emehmon. Tourist tax is usually included in the hotel bill, and private hosts pay the tourist tax on behalf of the guest.
- If you’re travelling in Uzbekistan in a camper van or staying in tents and camping, you must register yourself. Register online through the electronic registration system, Emehmon, within 3 days of arrival. When registering online, you’ll have to pay a tourist tax charge for each day of your stay. At the moment you can only pay the tourist tax online with an Uzbek debit card in local currency.
- The authorities will require a full record of where you’ve been in Uzbekistan upon departure. If you are unable to account for your whereabouts, or fail to get registered, you could get a fine for each day that is missing or late and possibly be deported.
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all participants and must cover:
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
- Cycling and adventure activities
- Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
- Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking
Health & Vaccinations
- Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
- Follow advice from official travel health authorities
- Uzbekistan has a continental climate with dramatic seasonal contrasts:
- Summers: Hot and dry, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F)
- Winters: Average around –2°C (28°F) Can drop to –40°C (–40°F) in extreme cases
- The most pleasant months to travel are:Spring: April – May
Autumn: September – early November. During these seasons, the weather is warm, dry, with less intense heat - Occasionally wind and rain showers possible
- Cool nights — bring layers!
This is a flexible guide — please tailor it to your own preferences and needs.
Dress Code
- Women should carry a shawl or wrap to cover head and shoulders when not cycling.
- Everyone should wear baggy shorts (not Lycra) when off the bike.
Essential Cycling Gear
- Cycle helmet (mandatory – must be worn at all times while cycling)
- Sunglasses
- Water bottles or CamelBak
- Fingerless cycling gloves
- Cycling shoes
- Lightweight and heavyweight socks
- Padded cycling shorts
- Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable)
- Buff or neck warmer
- Warm gloves
- Down jacket
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Thermal base layers for extra warmth (also useful on camping nights)
- Warm fleece hat
- Overshoes for warmth (optional)
Off-Bike Clothing
- Lightweight T-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Trekking shorts
- Trousers
- Lip balm and sunscreen
- Towel
Personal First Aid Kit (Recommended)
- Our guides carry group first aid supplies, but we recommend bringing your own small kit including:
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Anti-diarrhoea tablets (e.g. Lomotil or Diacalm)
- Rehydration salts (e.g. Dioralyte)
- Antiseptic cream
- Throat lozenges
- Plasters (band aids)
- Nasal spray
- Eye drops
- Ear plugs
- Hand sanitiser
- Antiseptic wet wipes
- Insect repellent
Miscellaneous
- Energy bars, gels or snacks
- Energy or recovery drink powders
- Camera or head torch
- Travel adapter plug
Optional (based on customer feedback)
- Some riders have found it helpful to bring their own lightweight inflatable mattress (non-inflating sleeping mats are provided)
- Compact sleeping bag
- Adjust your kit depending on the season, expected temperatures and personal comfort needs.
- Republic of Uzbekistan
- Capital: Tashkent
- Population: 32 million
- Area: 447,400 sq km (172,700 sq miles)
- Major Languages: Uzbek, Russian, Tajik
- Major Religion: Islam (predominantly Sunni)
- Currency: Uzbek Som
- Life Expectancy: 68 years (men), 74 years (women)
Cultural Etiquette & Behaviour
- A handshake is common between men, often accompanied by a hand over the heart.
- When greeting a woman, a nod or placing your hand over your chest is more appropriate unless she initiates a handshake.
- Elders are highly respected — greet them first and use polite language.
- Dress Code: Modesty is important. Both men and women should avoid revealing clothing.
- Women should cover shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
- Men should avoid wearing shorts in traditional areas.
Religious Customs
- Islam is the main religion, but Uzbekistan is largely secular.
- During Ramadan, be respectful if people are fasting — avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Remove your shoes before entering mosques or private homes.
- Do not point your feet at people or religious objects.
Dining & Hospitality
- Guests are treated with great respect — expect to be offered tea or food when visiting someone’s home.
- Always accept tea, even if you don’t plan to drink much — refusing can be considered impolite.
- Meals begin only once the eldest or most honoured guest starts.
- Bread (patyr) is sacred — don’t place it upside down or discard it.
Photography
- Please always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
- Avoid taking photos near military buildings, border posts, or airports.
Language Tips
- Russian is widely spoken in cities; Uzbek is the national language.
- Learning a few basic words or greetings in Uzbek (or Russian) will be warmly received:
- Salom – Hello
- Rahmat – Thank you
- Iltimos – Please
Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem. Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking. Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.
Accommodation – Uzbekistan
The Uzbekistan tour offers a varied and traditional selection of accommodation, reflecting the landscapes, culture and adventurous nature of the journey. We generally stay in comfortable hotels in the larger towns and historic Silk Road cities, combined with traditional homestays and camping as we travel through the rural landscapes and mountains of Uzbekistan.
In the more remote areas, facilities are naturally simpler, with nights spent camping and staying with a local family in a mountain village. These stays are an important part of the experience, allowing us to explore areas where conventional accommodation is limited and experience traditional Uzbek hospitality and rural life.
Typical Accommodation
The accommodation shown below is representative of the places we normally use on this tour. We aim to use these properties wherever possible; however, accommodation may occasionally change due to availability, operational requirements or circumstances beyond our control.
Where a change is necessary, we will arrange an alternative of a similar standard and character wherever possible. The photographs below should therefore be viewed as examples of the type and standard of accommodation you can expect, rather than a guarantee of the specific properties shown.
Testimonials – Uzbekistan
Here is what our customers have to say about our ‘Uzbekistan’ Cycling holiday.
Mark Glaisher, Gillingham, England, UK
John Rowland, Cumbernauld, Scotland
Another brilliant trip with Redspokes. Uzbekistan is a fascinating and very hospitable country.
This trip allowed me to indulge my passion for both cycling and art and culture.
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Giselle Whish, Paddington, Australia
This cycling tour of Uzbekistan was jam packed with unique experiences, exceeded all my expectations and left me with many wonderful memories of the landscapes, people, culture and history. The cycling was challenging with many different terrains to tackle but ultimately hugely rewarding as we were guided through mesmorising remote wilderness steppes. The tour provided opportunities to appreciate the rich history and culture of this fascinating central Asian region.
Karen Dinardo, Killearn, Scotland, UK
The Redspokes Uzbekistan mountain biking trip was absolutely wonderful – a great group in very good weather ( October warm sunshine ) led by helpful and friendly guides, Umid and Shamil, with a great support team of guys.
The food was excellent – hot tasty food ,soups etc , fresh bread . and good lunches ready, to keep us fueled for riding . Bike hired was good & suited me fine. The hill riding routes & camping were varied and pretty awesome, seeing village life, visiting a small school, Mountain views, quiet camping spots, it was an all -round experience. This bike exercise followed by a week of Heritage cities tours , enough free time to explore / shop, and easy train transport, with a visit to a Bukhara Hammam – excellent! All the hotels were very good.
It was my first Redspokes tour – recommended by my friend – I’ll definitely do another soon. My birthday had a Redspokes surprise celebration that really made the end of the trip very special for me.
Muriel Thomson, Aberdeen, Scotland
Once again another superb redspokes trip shared with a lovely group. The trip was very well run with a great back up team. The back up team provided us with wonderful local dishes on the cycling/camping part of the trip and we certainly never went hungry! The cycling was rough and tough in places but very doable and the scenery throughout was fantastic. You certainly had a sense of being right out in the wilds of the country.
A visit to the new local village school at Aktash as we passed through added to the trip – it was great to see all the children looking so smart in their new school uniforms and obviously loving their shiny new school.
Shamil our cycle guide was excellent and he had a great knowledge of the history of his country. The visits to Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva made this a very different cycling trip and added to give a flavour of the history of this area and it's importance on the Old Silk Route. All in all another tremendous redspokes experience.
Peter Carey, London, England, UK
This was a fantastic trip. There were a whole variety of experiences. I was unsure what to expect from Uzbekistan but it really is a fantastic country with wonderful friendly and hospitable people. It was fascinating finding out more about the culture and history of the country, particularly the Silk Road cities.
The cycling and wild camping in the mountains was a great experience, including the desert like landscape and amazing starry skies. My fellow travellers were a super bunch and the support team really good.
Malcolm Grant, Perth, Scotland
What an amazing trip to Uzbekistan! The cycling was as challenging as you wanted to make it and the sightseeing was outstanding. The Uzbek people we met were so friendly and welcoming. The trip guides and support crew were constantly supportive and extremely helpful. I would thoroughly recommend the trip.
Ms Ruth Murphy, Wellington, New Zealand
This trip had the best of everything and exceeded expectations. Stunning rural landscapes and remote mountain villages where we interacted with the locals while camping in beautiful spots.
The legendary cities of the Silk Route which will only increase in popularity as the world discovers them.
The small group size and use of local guides and crew provides a unique perspective and experience.
Andrew Lindsay, St Peter Port, Guernsey, UK
Great tour with an interesting mix of cycling in mountains and sightseeing the beautiful silk road cities. Good campsite locations and excellent support team. Tour justifies its 7/10 "difficult" rating due to heat, hills and some technical mountain biking sections.
Eva Mary Strnad, California, USA
Trip highlights are the incredibly beautiful, massive, historical sights. Our guide, Shamil was absolutely outstanding. The food, especially while camping, was delicious. We went in September and enjoyed excellent weather and daily sunshine.
Cressida Dawson, Valais Switzerland
This was an amazing trip. You see bits of Uzbekistan that you wouldn’t if you were on the normal tourist route. We’ve never been anywhere where the people have been so friendly. We had great guides – Shamil and Khamdam who were so well informed and interested in their subjects. The second week of sightseeing was seamlessly well organised and almost as exhausting as the cycling! Be warned though – this is not a trip for the faint hearted – the cycling is hard and the camping is basic and was quite chilly when we went.
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Jeremy Whish, New South Wales, Australia
The trip was really enjoyable. The road surfaces were rough which was a challenge at times, but the support team were fantastic and the felling of accomplishment at the end of the ride was really satisfying.
Ian Burnett, Arakoon, Australia
A great tour over spectacular mountain ranges and the steppe of eastern Uzbekistan. There was plenty of interesting cycling including some long, fun descents.
Our guide, Shamil was super friendly and really knowledgeable, particularly about the history of the Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara & Khiva. The support crew, lead by Umid were also excellent. The food provided at lunches and the camps was delicious and plentiful. Our interactions with the curious and hospitable locals were also a highlight. A definite recommend!
Cathy, Manchester, England, UK
This is an excellent trip to an amazing location which ticked all of my boxes in terms of scenery, sights, history and people. Loved it.
Liz Hewitt, Great Yarmouth, England
Shamill was wonderful as were the crew – the cook and his mate and the drivers were amazing.
How Sanjar got his vehicle over the terrain was a sight to behold. The whole team went out of their way to help us.
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John Homer, Cullompton, England, UK
Two tours in and i am booked on a third. The Red Spokes team keep close to their customers experience and you feel they really want you to have a great time.
I would highly recommend the experience and I cant wait for my next tour.
Helen Williams, Auckland,New Zealand
Shamil was excellent. Think he did not understand as much English as preferable but he did not let it cause any problems. He was a delight & we all were very pleased to have him as our guide.
As someone who has done many bike tours I know the guide makes a tour special or not.
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Doug Pulleyblank, Vancouver, Canada
Over three mountain ranges, ending up in three of the most amazing cities of the silk road! Incredible rock formations in the mountains, some very cool single-track, camping with herds of horses wandering around — everything in Uzbekistan seems to be about water management as we followed rivers and streams from the mountains towards the desert. As on other tours, great people, great biking, great food, great guides.
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Ines Versteegden, Amstelveen, Netherlands
This was a great journey! Cycling through the mountains and small villages was beautiful. The tracks were not too difficult to ride and the scenery was great, relaxed distances, quiet roads. Camping at splendid locations. Super staff: very friendly, always helpful and assisting with the bikes when having a puncture. Good guiding too, during cycling as well as city tours. The cooks prepared good and delicious food, and plenty of meatless options if desired. Next the visits to the historical cities, magnificent, interesting guided tours. Also some time to relax and admire all. This part of the tour was more busy, but worth it. All was well organized.
Sarah Howes, Tonbridge, England, United Kingdom
This was my first time travelling with Redspokes and the cycle tour in Uzbekistan did not disappoint – it was a fantastic experience. Although a regular cyclist, mountaineer and camper, I’d never done a cycling trip like this before or visited this part of the world so for me it was such an adventure! Riding through the arid and desolate landscape, dotted with colourful oases and villages that seemed straight out of the Old Testament (albeit now with electricity, cars and mobile phones!) meant we truly saw the real Uzbekistan. Riding over the vast high plateaux was exhilarating and great fun! There was also some very challenging terrain at times. The support crew were absolutely fantastic and looked after us really well. They provided plenty of food & drink, and a huge variety, three times a day. Camp was always tidy, well organised, bikes checked and fixed/adjusted and even hot water for the shower tent. Sightseeing in Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva was absolutely fascinating and a great complement to the ‘wild’ part of the trip.
Photos – Uzbekistan
Here are a selection of photos for our ‘Uzbekistan’ Cycling holiday.
