Step into a world where time seems to stand still with the “Oases of the Desert and Mountain Villages” tour. The Nuratau Mountains, inhabited since Alexander the Great’s era, offer insights into centuries-old lifestyles where women bake bread over open fires and men herd livestock and build stone houses. Yurt camps near the pristine Aydarkul Lake preserve Central Asia’s nomadic heritage. This three-day journey combines unique cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and tranquility. Stay in a traditional yurt, swim in the Aydarkul Lake, and immerse yourself in village life. Explore prehistoric petroglyphs, visit Gijduvan’s renowned pottery workshops, and enjoy the serenity of remote mountain villages.
Detailed 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Bukhara – Gijduvan – Sarmish – Nurata – Yurt Camp
Morning departure from Bukhara into the Kyzylkum Desert with stops at historical sites:
- Gijduvan (50 km, 1 hr): Visit a pottery museum and workshop, famous for colorful ceramics valued for centuries in Central Asia.
- Rabat-i-Malik Caravanserai and Sardoba (50 km, 1 hr): Explore ruins of a Silk Road caravanserai and a nearby water reservoir, once vital for travelers.
- Sarmish (50 km, 1 hr): Open-air museum with prehistoric petroglyphs depicting the life and beliefs of ancient civilizations.
- Nurata (80 km, 1.5 hrs): Visit a mosque with sacred spring water and the ruins of Alexander the Great’s fortress.
- Arrival at Yurt Camp (70 km, 1 hr): Settle into your traditional yurt. Enjoy a camel ride or relax in the dunes.
- Evening Campfire Activities: Dinner under the stars with traditional dishes. Listen to songs by a Kazakh akyn (folk singer) at the campfire.
Optional Activity: Camel ride to Dungalak village (1.5 km, 30 min) to bake naan bread and experience village life (~20 USD).
Day 2: Yurt Camp – Aydarkul Lake – Nuratau Mountain Village
- Morning Visit to Aydarkul Lake (5 km): Stroll along the turquoise oasis lake and swim in its crystal-clear waters.
- Lunch at Yurt Camp: Return for a picnic lunch before heading to the mountains.
- Drive to a Mountain Village (130 km, 2 hrs): Arrive at a picturesque Nuratau Mountain village where life follows a calm, rural rhythm.
- Village Life Exploration: Guided walk, interact with locals, and gain insight into their daily routines.
- Stay with a Local Family: Homemade dinner with traditional dishes, overnight in a cozy guesthouse.
Optional Activity: Guided hike to a waterfall via prehistoric petroglyphs (6–7 km, 2–3 hrs each way, ~20 USD).
Day 3: Nuratau Mountain Village – Samarkand
- Morning in the Village: Relax with a hike, donkey ride, or assist in preparing traditional meals. Alternatively, sip tea and read under a walnut tree.
- Afternoon Drive to Samarkand (230 km, 4 hrs): Bid farewell to your hosts, scenic drive to Samarkand.
- Arrival in Samarkand: Transfer to your hotel.
End of the “Oases of the Desert and Mountain Villages” Tour.
Inclusions
- Transport throughout the tour (sedan for 1–3 people, minivan for 4–8 people)
- Accommodation: 1 night in a yurt, 1 night in a local guesthouse
- Meals:
- Day 1: Dinner
- Day 2: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
- Day 3: Breakfast, lunch
- Sightseeing program with admission fees as per itinerary
Exclusions
- Optional activities (camel ride, hike, ~20 USD per activity)
- Snacks (recommended to bring, as the yurt camp is remote)
- Drinks outside of meals
- Tips for guides and drivers
Notes
- Bring snacks, as the yurt camp has no shopping facilities.
- Reverse routes or custom adjustments available on request.
Booking Information
Thank you for your interest! Send us your travel inquiry for a customized itinerary. We ensure flexible, personalized planning for a perfect experience. Response within 24 hours. Contact us via WhatsApp: +99893 352 00 44. We look forward to crafting your dream trip!
Your DOCA TOURS Team
