Family trip to Uzbekistan: everything you need to know
Planning a family trip to Uzbekistan? Great idea! This Central Asian country is an ideal destination for a getaway with children (even young ones).
Planning a family trip to Uzbekistan? Great idea! This Central Asian country is an ideal destination for a getaway with children (even young ones). Custom itinerary, best time to visit, safety, transport, etc.: discover our tips for a successful journey along the Silk Road.
What to see and do on a family trip to Uzbekistan?
Take a camel trek in the Kizylkoum desert
In the doāb (between "the two waters") of the Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers, set out to discover the Kyzylkoum desert. Spanning 298,000 km², this desert zone is dotted with typical villages situated around oases and waterways. Want to explore its stunning landscapes as a family? Opt for a camel trek!
Camel treks are hugely popular with children, as they allow you to discover desert treasures while immersing yourself in nomadic life. On the agenda: historic sites, fortresses and birdwatching… at Lake Aydarkul.
Fishing at Lake Aydar (Aydar-kul)
To the southeast of the desert, you'll find Lake Aydar. Created in 1970, this salt lake is renowned for its stunning turquoise color. Nicknamed "The Sea of Sand," this oasis offers a truly relaxing experience... Fishing, swimming, observation of bird species (pelicans, ducks, etc.): Lake Aydar promises wonderful family memories. Note that it's possible to rent fishing rods at the lakeside. As for swimming? The lake is safe and has no currents.
Enjoy a puppet show
Puppet theater is an integral part of Uzbek culture. Indeed, it's a very ancient tradition (found particularly in Bukhara), which allows the country's history to be told. To share their folklore tales with foreign audiences, some performances are given in English.
Your children aren't bilingual? No problem! Thanks to the gestures of the kougirtchok-boz (puppet artists) and the intonations of the korpharmon (narrator), it's possible to understand the essence of the story. Our advice? Don't hesitate to enroll your younger children in puppet workshops to learn how to manipulate them!
Sleep in a yurt
If you want to fully enjoy the beauty of the Kyzylkoum desert: a night in a yurt is a great idea. Beyond offering a sense of adventure to your children, you'll be able to watch the sunset with them, then the stars in peace...
Yurt camps are, for the most part, located not far from Lake Aydar. More or less spacious (depending on yurt choice), they're equipped with mattresses, pillows and sheets. Bathrooms are also available on the camp (but bring your own bath towels and soap).
Discover the city of Khiva
Considered an "open-air museum", Khiva is a must-see stop. At the heart of the old city, you'll find the ancient fortified citadel Itchan Kala. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic center is home to numerous structures built between the 14th and 19th centuries (which show the evolution of Islamic architecture). Whatever your children's age, they'll be captivated by the beauty of the mosaics and minarets!
Visit the Ark Fortress in Bukhara
In Bukhara, discover the stunning Ark Fortress. Destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries, the citadel was definitively rebuilt in the 17th century by the Shaybanids – the first Uzbek dynasty to come to power in the early 16th century. On-site? You'll be able to admire stunning walls with an atypical shape, a mosque and a coronation chamber...
Explore the city of Samarkand
Samarkand is a city renowned for its distinctive colors and cultural richness. Among Samarkand's highlights? Don't miss the Shah-e-Zinda necropolis! This 11th-century structure (UNESCO-listed) houses numerous mausoleums, including the splendid Touman Aka. The ensemble is mostly covered with blue mosaic. Why blue? Because it was once the color of mourning!
Another emblematic place? Registan Square – an opportunity to visit three sublime madrasas (Quranic schools) without having to walk for miles, since all three monuments are located side by side.
Discover the capital (Tashkent)
Like the rest of the country, Tashkent is a city rich in heritage. Beyond historic monuments (such as the Khast Imam complex or the Islamic Institute), Uzbekistan's capital is also home to the famous Chorsu bazar. This local market is renowned for its lively atmosphere and stalls set up under a blue dome. Your children will appreciate the scents and colors, as well as the kindness of the locals.
Good to know To avoid crowds (and children's excitement), it's recommended to do cultural visits early in the morning, with a return to your hotel late morning for lunch, then rest time. At the first signs of fatigue, don't hesitate to take a short break (and easy walks). In the afternoon, prioritize shaded activities (museums, religious buildings), before heading out again in the evening (when the heat starts to drop). In summer, this mid-day break is really essential. |
What's the best time to visit Uzbekistan with children?
Climate is an important factor to consider for a family trip to Uzbekistan, as the country enjoys a continental climate with very hot summers and very cold winters.
To avoid the high temperatures of July and August (which can reach 40-45°C in some parts of the country) and the intense winter cold (down to -30°C in December), it's recommended to travel during the intermediate seasons.
Indeed, spring and autumn offer a good compromise, since temperatures range between 22 and 28°C during the day.
How can you get around Uzbekistan?
Car travel (with driver)
One essential thing to know is that it's not possible to rent a car without a driver in Uzbekistan! But don't worry, if you opt for car travel with a guide-driver, they'll know how to adapt to your needs and take you wherever you wish, while respecting your itinerary.
The downside? Many vehicles are not equipped with rear seatbelts (and don't have car seats for little ones...).
Train travel
Some Uzbek cities can be far apart from one another. As a result? The country has a good rail network and numerous lines, making it easy to get around.
The overnight train is a great option for visiting Uzbekistan with a family, as it allows you to cover many kilometers without the journeys seeming too long to children. It's possible to reserve compartments.
By day or night, trains are equipped with air conditioning systems, allowing you to easily tackle long distances in case of extreme heat.
What food will please children?
Influenced by Chinese, Russian and Turkish cuisine, Uzbek gastronomy is renowned for its spiced dishes (but not necessarily hot) and its diversity. As a result, you shouldn't encounter major difficulties feeding your children in Uzbekistan... A dish you absolutely must try? Chourpa (chickpea soup)!
Be aware if a family member is vegetarian, that meat is very present in the dishes (and rarely offered on the menu). Also note that dishes are essentially cooked with cotton oil, which can upset Western stomachs…
Trip to Uzbekistan: advice for packing properly
For a successful family trip to Uzbekistan, it's necessary to pack wisely! Here's a list of essentials to slip into your bags before departure:
● Medications: antiseptics, antibiotics and anti-diarrheal agents,
● Sun protection: cream, sunglasses, hats, etc.,
● Games (not too bulky) to keep children occupied during long-distance journeys,
● Clothing suited to your travel season: including a windbreaker and swimwear, which can be useful.
● A baby carrier, always essential if you have a young child, as it offers great freedom of movement.
● A stroller, in case of extreme heat, it's more suitable than a sling, as it allows you to keep your baby out of the sun.
Finally, be aware that diapers, formula milk, as well as compotes and drinking yogurts are easily found in supermarkets and convenience stores.
Is it safe to travel to Uzbekistan as a family?
Uzbekistan is a safe destination and quite feasible with children (even young ones).
The healthcare system
As for health, the country has a functional and effective medical system. In the capital, you'll find emergency services and pharmacies open 24/7, if needed. Our advice? Don't hesitate to check your child's overall health and vaccinations with a pediatrician before you leave.
Likewise, to avoid gastrointestinal issues: be aware that tap water is NOT potable in Uzbekistan! During your trip, be sure never to consume tap water (and avoid giving raw foods to your children).
Political security
Uzbekistan is a secure country. Note, however, that the border area with Afghanistan has been advised against since May 2023. Before you leave, check the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs website to verify the political situation at the time.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Uzbekistan is considered a safe destination for families. The country has a functional healthcare system with emergency services and pharmacies open 24/7 in Tashkent. Only the border area with Afghanistan has been advised against since May 2023. Be sure to check the recommendations of the Foreign Affairs Ministry before you leave.
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best times for a family trip to Uzbekistan. Temperatures then range between 22 and 28°C, which is ideal with children. In summer, heat can exceed 40°C, and in winter temperatures drop to -30°C in some regions.
Yes, although renting a car without a driver is not possible in Uzbekistan. You can opt for a guide-driver or use the country's developed rail network. Overnight trains are particularly convenient with children as they allow you to cover long distances during their sleep, with bookable compartments and air conditioning.
Uzbek gastronomy is varied and generally appreciated by children. Dishes are spiced but not necessarily hot. Chourpa (chickpea soup) is an excellent option to try. Be careful if your child is vegetarian, as meat is omnipresent. Also note that tap water is not potable; prioritize bottled water.
French nationals enjoy visa exemption for Uzbekistan for tourist stays. It is however recommended to verify the conditions in place with the embassy or the Foreign Affairs Ministry before you leave, particularly regarding documents required for minors traveling with one parent.
With children, don't miss a camel trek in the Kyzylkoum desert, a night in a yurt near Lake Aydar, a traditional puppet show in Bukhara, the old city of Khiva listed by UNESCO, and Registan Square in Samarkand with its three madrasas side by side.
