General Information: Embark on a culinary adventure through Uzbekistan, discovering the rich and diverse flavors of Central Asian cuisine. From aromatic pilafs to savory kebabs and delicate pastries, Uzbekistan’s culinary heritage reflects its vibrant history and multicultural influences. This tour is a feast for the senses, offering the opportunity to taste traditional dishes, explore local markets, and learn about the culinary traditions of Uzbekistan.

Tour Features:

• Guided visits to bustling bazaars and local markets
• Hands-on cooking classes with experienced chefs
• Dining experiences at traditional Uzbek restaurants and family homes
• Sampling of regional specialties and street food delights
• Cultural excursions to historical sites and landmarks
• Accommodation in comfortable hotels with a focus on culinary authenticity

Included:

• Accommodation in centrally located hotels
• Meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Transportation throughout the tour (including airport transfers)
• Entrance fees to attractions and cultural sites
• Guided tours and excursions with experienced local guides
• Cooking classes and culinary demonstrations
• Taxes and service charges

Excluded:

• International airfare to/from Uzbekistan
• Visa fees (if applicable)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (such as souvenirs and additional meals)
• Alcoholic beverages (unless specified)
• Tips for guides and drivers

Detailed Tour Program:

Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent

• Transfer from Tashkent International Airport to your hotel
• Welcome dinner featuring traditional Uzbek cuisine at a local restaurant

Day 2: Tashkent Culinary Exploration

• Morning visit to Chorsu Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s oldest and largest markets
• Guided tasting tour of the bazaar, sampling fresh fruits, spices, and local delicacies
• Cooking class with a local chef, learning to prepare classic Uzbek dishes such as plov (pilaf) and somsa (stuffed pastries)
• Lunch featuring the dishes prepared during the cooking class
• Afternoon sightseeing tour of Tashkent, including Independence Square and Amir Timur Square
• Dinner at a traditional Uzbek restaurant specializing in regional cuisine

Day 3: Tashkent – Samarkand

• Transfer to the ancient city of Samarkand, stopping en route to visit a local winery for wine tasting
• Lunch at a charming restaurant in the historic center of Samarkand
• Guided tour of Samarkand’s architectural wonders, including the Registan Square and Shah-i-Zinda necropolis
• Dinner at a family-owned guesthouse, experiencing authentic Uzbek hospitality and homemade dishes

Day 4: Samarkand – Bukhara

• Morning visit to Siab Bazaar in Samarkand, known for its fresh produce and spices
• Departure for Bukhara, with a stop at a roadside teahouse for a traditional Uzbek tea ceremony
• Lunch at a local restaurant in Bukhara, tasting regional specialties such as shashlik (grilled skewered meat)
• Guided walking tour of Bukhara’s old town, including the Ark Fortress and Lyab-i Hauz complex
• Dinner at a traditional chaikhana (tea house), sampling local teas and sweets

Day 5: Bukhara Culinary Experience

• Morning visit to the local market to shop for ingredients for a cooking class
• Cooking class with a Bukharian chef, learning to make dishes unique to the region, such as manty (steamed dumplings) and non bread
• Lunch featuring the dishes prepared during the cooking class
• Afternoon visit to a local workshop to learn about traditional Uzbek pottery techniques
• Dinner at a family-run restaurant, savoring authentic Bukharian cuisine

Day 6: Bukhara – Khiva

• Transfer to the UNESCO-listed city of Khiva, stopping en route to visit a traditional Uzbek bakery
• Lunch at a local restaurant in Khiva, tasting traditional dishes such as lagman (noodle soup) and khorezm palov (rice pilaf)
• Guided walking tour of Khiva’s historic center, including the Ichon-Qala fortress and Tash-Hauli Palace
• Dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the illuminated monuments of Khiva

Day 7: Khiva – Tashkent

• Morning visit to a local silk carpet workshop to learn about the art of carpet weaving
• Lunch at a traditional chaikhana in Khiva, enjoying Uzbek tea and sweets
• Transfer to Urgench Airport for your flight back to Tashkent
• Farewell dinner at a restaurant in Tashkent, reminiscing about the culinary delights of Uzbekistan

Day 8: Departure from Tashkent

• Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your onward journey

Note:

• Vegetarian and dietary preferences can be accommodated with advance notice.
• The itinerary is subject to change based on local conditions and availability.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for city tours and market visits.
• Come hungry and ready to indulge in the flavors of Uzbekistan’s diverse culinary landscape!