Uzbekistan upgraded small group holiday

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

As a travel company we're acutely aware of our impact on the environment. Each one of our tours displays a carbon footprint, and we're working to reduce our emissions by regularly reviewing our itineraries and embracing lower-impact styles of travel such as trains, public buses or walking – which aren't just better for the planet, but we believe offer a more enjoyable and authentic travel experience too. We're a Certified B Corp that's committed to creating unforgettable adventures while protecting our planet for future generations.
To cover the long distance between Tashkent and Nukus, this itinerary includes one internal flight where there is no practical lower-carbon alternative. Elsewhere, we reduce emissions by travelling on the high-speed train between Bukhara and Samarkand, while other journeys are made using appropriately sized group transport to minimise emissions. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are available every day, and while options are still developing in Uzbekistan, restaurants are increasingly catering to different dietary requirements. Around 80% of the food enjoyed on the trip is locally sourced and seasonal, including fruit, vegetables, grains and locally produced ingredients. In line with national regulations, accommodation providers are also required to source part of their energy from renewable sources, including solar power.

ENVIRONMENT & WILDLIFE

We strive to support nature and biodiversity through protection and regeneration projects, and for every customer that travels with us we make a donation to Rewilding Britain and Cool Earth. We encourage customers to avoid single-use plastic on tour, and our leaders give advice on refill points each day. Where tap water isn't safe to drink we recommend Water-to-Go bottles, a filtration bottle allowing you to drink water from any source.
We review the environmental practices of accommodation partners used on our Uzbekistan trips, recognising that sustainability standards continue to develop across the country and can vary between properties. Many accommodations have adopted measures such as refillable toiletry dispensers, reusable water containers, recycling and waste separation programmes, LED lighting and partial solar energy use. Tour leaders also provide practical advice on travelling responsibly, including reducing plastic waste and respecting local environments and heritage sites. Throughout the journey, we work with knowledgeable local guides at selected sites to help deepen understanding of Uzbekistan’s culture and history while supporting local employment.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Our leaders are the heart of tours. They bring passion and unrivalled knowledge of the destinations and communities that we visit. Their guidance ensures we observe the cultural norms in a destination, they act as a bridge between travellers and the local community and ensure that tourism is a positive experience for both host and guest. We believe in supporting local; staying in locally-run hotels, exploring markets, buying snacks from street vendors, and by doing this we add money to the local economy and enhance our connection with the local community.
Around 60% of accommodation used on this trip is locally owned, particularly outside Tashkent where we stay in smaller hotels and guesthouses run by local businesses in destinations such as Samarkand and Bukhara. We maximise local economic opportunities by employing local tour leaders and guides, visiting markets, rural areas and traditional communities, and staying in smaller properties where tourism income directly benefits local families and businesses. Experiences beyond the major cities also help us gain insight into everyday life in Uzbekistan while supporting regional communities.

EMPLOYMNET, INCLUSIVITY & DIVERSITY

We believe that diversity is to be celebrated and as a Certified B Corp we're committed to championing equity and inclusion throughout our entire supply chain. We believe that an inclusive approach is essential, and that the best results occur when contributors have different opinions, experiences and backgrounds to bring to the table.
All staff involved in operating this trip, including tour leaders, drivers, guides and office teams, are local specialists from Uzbekistan, ensuring strong destination knowledge and direct economic benefit to communities. We are committed to equal opportunities in recruitment and employment, with hiring based on skills and qualifications, and staff are paid above both the local minimum wage and market rate. LGBTQ+ travellers are welcome on this trip, although local laws and cultural attitudes mean discretion around public displays of affection is recommended. While many areas visited are accessible and on ground level, some historic sites – including stairways at Shakhi Zinda in Samarkand – may present challenges for travellers with limited mobility, although support can be arranged where possible.