Tashkent to Khiva Silk Road holiday

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

We aim to reduce the environmental impact of the journey by using shared coaches or minibuses for the overland route between Uzbekistan’s main Silk Road cities rather than arranging separate private vehicles for each traveller. The itinerary follows a logical route from Tashkent through Samarkand and Bukhara to Khiva, avoiding unnecessary backtracking. The only domestic flight is between Urgench and Tashkent, allowing us to avoid a much longer overland return journey.

Many of the historical centres visited during the tour can be explored on foot, particularly in Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. This allows travellers to experience the destinations at a slower pace while reducing unnecessary local vehicle journeys.

ENVIRONMENT & WILDLIFE

The itinerary also takes travellers through the Kyzylkum Desert, where we encourage responsible behaviour and respect for the natural environment. Photography stops are made in appropriate locations, and guests are encouraged not to leave waste behind or disturb the surrounding landscape. The tour focuses on cultural heritage and local communities rather than activities involving captive or wild animals.

By combining shared transport, walking experiences, responsible visits to heritage sites and locally based cultural activities, the tour aims to minimise its environmental footprint while helping travellers appreciate and respect Uzbekistan’s natural and cultural heritage.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

This tour is designed to ensure that tourism benefits the people and communities we visit. Throughout the journey, we work with local English-speaking guides, drivers, restaurants, artisans, cooks and cultural performers, helping tourism income reach local businesses and people directly. Rather than simply visiting Uzbekistan’s famous sights, travellers have opportunities to meet local people and experience traditional ways of life.

A key part of the itinerary is a visit to a family-run pottery workshop in Gijduvan, where hereditary artisans share the traditions of the region’s famous ceramic school. Travellers take part in a hands-on pottery master class, creating their own ceramic souvenir while supporting local craftspeople and helping preserve traditional skills. In Khorezm, the cooking master class and traditional folk dance performance provide further opportunities for local chefs and performers to benefit from tourism.


EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

The tour also encourages meaningful cultural exchange. Travellers learn about Uzbekistan’s history, Islamic heritage, traditional crafts, cuisine and everyday life directly from local people. We encourage guests to respect local customs, religious traditions and communities throughout the journey, creating a positive and respectful experience for both visitors and hosts.