Dusted in eye-popping cobalts, cyans and sapphires, Uzbekistan has an incredible tangle of history to unravel and hidden sites to uncover.
From its former Persian rule and key location along the famed Silk Road, to which is owes much of its grand architecture and culture, to a short period under Soviet rule, this jumble of traditions is a treasure trove waiting to be cracked open. We veer you through Uzbekistan’s great sites, mingle with their nomads and cross into the autonomous Karakalpakstan Republic – a lesser known region often over shadowed by the other ‘stans’. Karakalpakstan was once a rich delta feeding from the Aral Sea, part of the Silk Road and also a place of great Islamic learning. Now it barely survives. Almost completely deserted, the small republic provides a fascinating experience to the well healed traveller showcasing how regions can go from prosperous to destructed.
Wind back through Uzbekistan as you stay in hidden villages, live with locals and embrace the stunning scenery. Spend an evening under the stars in a yurt, deep in the Kyzyl Kum desert where the night sky will be one of the clearest and most spectacular star gazing experiences you may ever have.
Travel by land over the border to Tajikistan, the land of mountains, dotted with sapphire lakes and snow capped peaks. Stone villages scatter through the valleys, urging you to explore this landscape of sheer beauty. Travelling through Tajikistan is not easy. Roads are poor, hot water is a rarity and the locals are only just starting to warm to travellers. A destination that offers a true glimpse to a rare and remote way of life, Tajikistan’s serene beauty will not disappoint.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Uzbekistan! Upon arrival at Tashkent airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. Uzbekistan is the proud home to a spellbinding infusion of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply intertwined with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road.
Overnight – Hotel Inspira-S Tashkent or similar
After breakfast, meet your guide and depart for sightseeing in Tashkent. Start by visiting the wonderful complex Khast Imam, located in the old part of the city which has been the biggest centre of Islamic culture in Uzbekistan for thousands of years. Continuing to Kukeldash Madrasah, the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical monuments of Tashkent. You will then explore Chorsu, a local bazaar, one of the largest and most popular bazaars in the capital. Covered by seven domes tiled with coloured ceramic designs, mingle amongst the longest as they bargain and barter amongst themselves. Local farmers come from far and wide to sell products of their own production. Let your senses take over as you inhale the aromas of different Eastern spices, vegetables and fruits. You will then visit A. Rakhimov’s workshop for a unique cultural experience.
Later this afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Nukus. Nukus is the sixth-largest city in Uzbekistan, and the capital of the autonomous Karakalpakstan Republic. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (B)
Overnight – Hotel Jipek Joli or similar
After breakfast, drive to Muynak (130 km / 3 hours) where you will have a look at the former port now home to abandoned ships wedged into their final destination – the sand. This area is also known as the ‘Cemetery of Ships’.
Today’s lunch is with a local family. Enjoy learning about their local way of life as you share lunch with them, and in turn, tell them about your lifestyle. This is sure to be an eye-opening experience as your two worlds come together. On your way back to Nukus (130km), stop at Mizdakhan, a complex of historical monuments located on three hills and a plane between them. The flat top of the west hill is crowned with the ruins of Gyaur-Kala Fortress, built in the 4th century BC which you will also visit. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Jipek Joli or similar
Depart early this morning as you drive towards Khiva (200km, 3-3.5hrs), a city of approximately 50,000 people located in the Xorazm Region. According to archaeological data, the city was established at the beginning of the Christian era. It is the former capital of Khwarezmia and the Khanate of Khiva. Enroute, visit Ayaz Kala, an archaeological site housing the mud brick walls of three fortresses, and Toprak Kala, an ancient settlement of an outstanding monument of the culture of Khoresm from the 1-6th centuries A.D.
Upon arrival in Khiva, you will begin exploring the city, starting with Ichan Qala complex, an old town retaining more than 50 historic monuments and 250 old houses, dating primarily from the eighteenth or nineteenth centuries. The most spectacular features of the Ichan Qala complex are its crenellated brick walls and four gates, one on each side of the rectangular fortress. This has recently become a UNESCO heritage site.
Another highlight of your city tour includes visiting the Pakhlavan Mahmud, which is the holiest site in Khiva. It is the shrine of Khiva’s patron saint, Pakhlavan Mahmud, who was a fur hat maker and a famous poet of Khiva, and the dynastic burial complex of the Khiva Khans. Pakhlavan Mahmud was also a superb wrestler, winning every single of his wrestling matches as well as the hearts of the Khiva citizens who built a modest mausoleum for him on the site of his furrier workshop. (B)
Overnight – Orient Star or similar
This morning, travel from Khiva to Bukhara (431km,6hrs). Upon arrival, begin exploring the city’s highlights, starting with the Chashmai-Ayub Mausoleum which has a unique architectural style. Continue to the impressive Poyi-Kalon Complex, where you’ll see the towering Kalon Minaret and the prominent Miri-Arab Madrasah. Take a walk through the Lyabi-Hauz Complex, a lively area centred around a tranquil pool surrounded by historic buildings. Visit the elegant Samanids Mausoleum, an important example of early Islamic architecture, before exploring the Nadir Devonbegi Madrasah. Stop by the distinctive Chor-Minor, famous for its four minarets, and finish the day at the Ark Citadel, the ancient heart and historic centre of Bukhara. (B)
Overnight – Minorai Kalon Boutique Hotel or similar
This morning, explore the Chashmai-Ayub Mausoleum, Samanids Mausoleum, Chor-Minor Minarets, and the Ark Citadel – the ancient heart of Bukhara. You will then transfer to Gijduvan (60km,1hr), home to one of the most renowned ceramic schools. Visit the Museum of Ceramics to learn about the significance of this traditional craft in local life.
Continue to Nurata town (100km/1.5hrs) to visit the local mosque, Chashma, which has a spring with holy water considered to be healing. There is also the opportunity to climb to the ruins of the Castle of Alexander (Fortress of Nur), which is opposite the Mosque. The climb is uphill and easy-mid difficulty, taking you to the ruins of the ancient structure that was built by Alexander the Great.
Continue driving out through the rolling landscape towards your yurt camp in the Kyzyl Kum desert (80km,1.5hrs), the 16th largest desert in the world. Its name means Red Sand in Turkic languages. Once you have checked into your yurt, it is time to head off for an afternoon camel ride before enjoying some free time. Once the sun has set, enjoy dinner around the campfire with your local hosts serenading you with traditional folk songs beneath the stars. (B,L)
Overnight – Yangikazgan Yurt Camp or similar
After breakfast, visit Aydarkul desert lake, a turquoise, crystal clear lake and one of the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan. If the weather permits, you may like to take a swim! Enjoy a picnic on the shore of the lake taking in the tranquil setting before you transfer to the village of Asraf, where you will become fully immersed in the life of the locals. Local people build themselves houses of small stones, rocks, and clay. They plant and collect fruits and vegetables to cook for their meals which are all cooked in the open-fire oven. Each family has a few head of livestock and poultry, which provide eggs, milk, meat and wool. Whilst with your host family, enjoy a masterclass to learn how to bake Uzbek bread. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Guesthouse or similar
Awake to embrace the lifestyle of the local villagers once more and embrace the purity of the neighbourhood. After lunch, you will transfer to Samarkand (200km,3hrs) and check into your hotel.
This afternoon, explore the main attractions in Samarkand including the Registan, which is a plaza bordered by 3 ornate, majolica-covered madrassas dating to the 15th and 17th centuries. You also have the chance to explore Gur Emir, the towering tomb of Timur (Tamerlane), founder of the Timurid Empire. Other points of interest include visiting the Shakhizinda, which is a necropolis in the northeastern part of Samarkand and the Bibikhanum Mosque which is one of the most important monuments of Samarkand. (B)
Overnight – Arka Boutique Hotel or similar
This morning, you will drive to the village of Tersak (approx 45 km). Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by a local family who will join you for tea and oriental dried fruits. Walk through this quaint village and discover the beautiful mountain landscapes of the region. This is a great chance to observe the everyday life of the people and witness their time-frozen traditions.
Continue your journey to the Takhta Karacha mountain pass, about 25 km away. From this vantage point, admire panoramic views of the snow-covered Pamir Altay chain. Explore the ‘Devil Valley,’ known for its unusual rock formations and mythical tales of sorcerers and witches. The locals believe the area has unique ground energy that enhances the quality of the milk from passing cows.
After your hike, return to Samarkand. Transfer to the railway station for your high-speed train ride back to Tashkent (2-3hrs). Enjoy dinner upon arrival. (B,D)
Overnight – Hotel Jipek Joli or similar
Today you will travel to the Oybek border point (140km,2hrs). After crossing the border, you will travel Khudjand which will take 4-6 hours depending on how long it takes to go through border formalities.
Explore historic Khudjand, formerly known as Khodjend or Khodzhent until 1936 and Leninabad until 1991. This is the second largest city of Tajikistan and the capital of the northernmost province of Tajikistan, now called Sughd. Khudjand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, dating back about 2,500 years. It is situated on the Syr Darya at the mouth of the Fergana Valley and was a major city along the ancient Silk Road. Today, you will visit the biggest bazaar- Panjshanbe, the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin, the Complex of Kamoli Khujandi, and the Tajik Sea. Lunch today is in a local restaurant. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Khujand Deluxe Hotel or similar
Travel today from Khudjand to Iskanderkul (220km,4hrs), a mountain lake of glacial origin in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province. It lies at an altitude of 2,195 metres on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range in the Fann Mountains. Today you will also see Niagara Fanns – a waterfall from which water falls from 35m. Zmeinoe Lake is beautiful as well and you will also spend time here.
This evening, enjoy a homestay in Sarytag village. Take an evening walking tour through the village. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Sarytag Homestay or similar
Spend the day exploring and walking through the breathtaking Fann Mountains. The Fann Mountains are part of the western Pamir-Alay Mountain system and are primarily located in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province between the Zarafshan Range to the north and the Gissary Range to the south. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will not forget! Today you will hike Alexander the Great Mountain. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Sarytag Homestay or similar
Travel from Iskanderkul Lake to Dushanbe (133km,2-3hrs), Tajikistan’s capital, situated on the Varzob River. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)
Overnight – Atlas B&B Guesthouse or similar
In the morning, visit the Hissar Fortress, which is part of the Hissar complex, one of the main Tajikistan highlights. What remains today is a portion of the wall and the gate towers, which are representative of the 18th and 19th-century style. The area has been inhabited since antiquity and features an 8th-century mosque, but it was the emirs who inhabited the fortress and the Silk Route traders that made Gissar a centre of commerce and learning. You will also have an opportunity today to visit Old Medressa (Madrasai Kuhna) (16-17 century), Madrasai Nav (17-18 century) and the Caravan Saray as well.
Later you will visit the Museum of National Antiquities which exhibits primarily from Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations: the Greek, Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Zoroastrian periods. The most notable piece in the museum is the largest, fifteen-hundred-year-old reclining Buddha statue. Later, enjoy strolling around the big Ismoili Somoni Monument – the forefather of Tajik nation, founded in the Main Square and Rudaki Park in the centre of the city as well. Try the taste of Tajik tea and hot bread in public teahouses – called Choikhona – most of which are decorated in traditional, colourful Tajik style. Lunch today is in a traditional Indian restaurant and following lunch, you will explore the ancient oriental bazaar and some craft workshops. Dinner this evening is at a restaurant named ‘Kishmish’ with ethnic music and performances. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Atlas B&B Guesthouse Hotel or similar
Today following breakfast, the day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Guesthouses, Homestays & Yurt Camp
Please note that guesthouses, homestays and yurt camps have very basic facilities. They generally have between 2 to 4 single beds per room, and single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Shared bathrooms facilities are clean but simple with a sink, toilet and a shower. They may be located outside in the courtyard & so we recommend you bring a torch for walking at night, along with shower gel/soap & wipes.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
* Please note that the single supplement is only available for hotel stays and not applicable to yurt camps, homestays and guesthouses
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
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Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
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Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
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