Embark on a captivating 16-day journey through the mystical lands of Iran, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, where wanderlust turns dreams into reality! Listen to the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam by his tomb. Explore the Turquoise mine in Neishabour and compare its allure to the vibrant Turquoise hues adorning historic structures along the trip. Wander through bustling bazaars, admire breathtaking landscapes, and visit sacred sites in Mashhad, Samarkand, and Bukhara. Immerse yourself in the beauty of natural wonders, including the legendary Darvaza gas crater. While navigating unfamiliar territories alone might seem daunting, fear not! With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you will experience unforgettable adventures where safety accompanies the thrill of exploration.
Monuments included in this tour
Mashhad City tour: Nadeshah Tomb, Imam Reza Shrine guided tour
Neishbour Excursion: Omar Khayyam tomb, Attar Neishabouri tomb, Kamal Almolk tomb, turquoise mine guided tour
Ashgabat visit: City tour Monument of Independence, the National Museum and the Neutrality Arch
Darvaza gas crater visit
Kunya Urgench and History Museum of Khorezm guided tour
Khiva city tour: Ichan-Kala Fortress complex half-day walking tour
Bukhara city tour: Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque, Chor-Minor Madrasah, trade domes, Kalyan Minaret, Ark Fortress, Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub mausoleums
Alexander the Great fortress visit
Nurata Shrine visit
Samarkand walking tour: Ulugbek Observatory, Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum shrine, and Registan Square
Samarkand: Registan Complex, Bibi Khanum shrine
Tashkent walking tour: Chorsu Bazaar and Applied Arts Museum, Amir Timur Square
Key Highlights of the tour
Visiting Omar Khayyam tomb
exploring Neishabour Turquoise mine
Stay overnight in a local yurt camp
visiting Khiva historic neighborhood
wonder at beauties of Samrkand
Should I join this tour?
Travel Style: Premium
Service Level: Standard
Tour Activity Level: Average
Trip Type: Small Group, Max 18 pax
Age Limit: above 10 years old
Accomadation: Cozy hotels with a touch of charm wherever available, camping for 2 nights
Transport: a blend of public and private transport including flight and train trip
Included Guided Activities: The key monuments and activities are included at an excellent value. They include walking and light hiking.
How we contribute to Sustainable Tourism in this tour
Local tour leader
Family run or private-owned hotels and hosts wherever possible
Local restaurants and cafes recommened by your tour leader
The most efficient travel plan to minimize driving and transportation
We are a local travel agency and tour operator in Iran
Your Visa Requirements
When it comes to obtaining a visa, there are some basic guidelines to keep in mind. Ensure that your passport remains valid for a minimum of six months, and it's crucial to have all necessary travel documents on hand that is your own responsibility. The visa requirements for your journey differ based on your place of origin and your destination and it is your own responsibility. While certain nationalities are exempt from obtaining visas for Iran and Uzbekistan, all nationalities must have a visa to enter Turkmenistan. We will help you with the LOI and the support letter if needed.
Iran
If your country is not included in the list of visa-free nationalities for visiting Iran, please complete this form and send it to us including a good quality passport image and a passport size photo. This will enable us to obtain your visa invitation letter, allowing you to acquire your visa upon arrival at Tehran airport or any designated Iran consulate before your arrival in Iran. For American, British, and Canadian citizens, it is advisable to apply for the LOI no later than 90 days prior to the tour commencement, while for other nationalities, the safe time is 30 days though we can provide you with the LOI code in a couple of days if you book close to the trip departure so that you get the visa on arrival.
If you wish to extend your stay or explore more of Iran, such as Shiraz and Isfahan, feel free to inform us. American, British, and Canadian passport holders are required to adhere to the exact travel itinerary provided to us within a guided tour if they wish to explore more of Iran before this trip departure. However, other nationalities can arrive ahead of the tour and enjoy their own time in Iran or book an additional tour with us.
You can get more details on Iran visa application process here.
Turkmenistan
All nationalities must obtain a visa to enter Turkmenistan. To acquire your visa, start by applying for a Letter of Invitation from Uppersia. After confirming your trip, ensure to submit your Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation application at least 40 days before your tour begins using the provided form and send it to us including a good quality passport image and a passport size photo. If your LOI is approved, your tour leader will help you collect your visa at the border crossing in Gaudan (Bajgiran/Mashhad, Iran) if you have not get the visa stamp beforehand.
Uzbekistan
Many nationalities can get a 10-day, 30-day or 60-day visit to Uzbekistan visa-free and many nationalities can get a 30-day visit to Uzbekistan by getting the e-visa.If you need a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a visa to Uzbekistan, kindly complete and submit the provided request form. please complete this form and send it to us including a good quality passport image and a passport size photo.
Important Notes
Money
As a result of the economic embargo, credit cards and ATMs are not usable in Iran, making cash the sole option. While Iran is affordable, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash as running out could limit your options. It's important to note that Iran operates with two currencies: the official currency is the Rial, but people commonly refer to Tooman. For tourists visiting Iran, it is recommended to bring only cash as cards and checks are not accepted. Both US Dollars and Euros are widely accepted in Iran and can be exchanged for Rial at banks, exchange offices, and airports.
In the Central Asia region, including Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, there are limitations on exchanging currency. Only notes printed after 1996 and in good condition will be exchanged. Typically, 50 and 100 USD/EUR notes receive more favorable exchange rates. It's advisable to also carry smaller denominations as many vendors accept them in the absence of local currency.
In Uzbekistan there are numerous ATMs available for withdrawing local currency (UZS), and banks are also present for exchanging USD or EUR. It is advisable to avoid using traveler's checks since only a few banks accept them. Keep in mind that ATMs dispense only local currency (Uzbek Sums). While some banks in Tashkent offer USD cash advances, this is subject to the availability of USD cash in the bank.
Tipping
In Iran, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan it is common to tip service providers like waiters and it is highly valued, typically around 3-5%, depending on the service. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for those who assist you during your journey. Even though it may not be your usual practice, it carries great importance to those taking care of you while you travel. Throughout the trip, there will be opportunities to tip local guides or drivers. You can tip them individually or have your tour leader collect the money and tip as a group. For drivers and local guides, recommendations range from $2-$3 USD per person per day, depending on the service quality and duration. Consult your tour leader for specific suggestions based on the situation and local customs. At the end of the trip, if you feel your Uppersia tour leader has provided exceptional service, tipping is welcomed. The amount is entirely up to you, but as a reference, $20-$25 USD per person per week is a common practice.
Dress Code
Female tourist in Iran has to cover their hair appropriately. They should also wear loose fitting garments which cover arms and legs up to at least the knee area over pants or skirt with a scarf in summer, and a full-length woolen coat and scarf in winter. Dress attire for men is similar to that in Europe. The strict dress code for men in Iran prohibits short trousers and short sleeved shirts and t-shirts. Although you would not see Iranian men dressed in shorts, you will almost certainly see men wearing short sleeved shirts and t-shirts. Sandals and flip flops without socks is acceptable for both genders and makes no problem.
In Central Asia including Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, a blend of traditional attire and Western-style clothing is common. When preparing for your journey, feel free to pack your typical travel wardrobe, including shorts, t-shirts, and sandals for summer. Avoid tank tops, singlets, or outfits with exposed shoulders or backs as they may not be well-received, especially in larger cities. As our itinerary involves visits to religious sites with strict dress codes, women are advised to have a headscarf in their day bags for mosque visits and to cope with the summer heat. To adapt to the warm Central Asian weather, opt for loose, long clothing like trousers, sarongs, or long skirts. During colder months (late October to April), be ready for rain and snow by packing warm clothes, jackets, and comfortable shoes.
Accommodation
Our group tours feature shared accommodation. Solo travelers on group tours are matched with a same-sex roommate in twin or multi-share lodging throughout the trip. You may ask for the single supplement and pay the extra cost if you want to stay in a single room during the whole trip for those nights that can be arranged.
Your Tour Leader
Throughout the entire trip, a tour leader who is a local to the region will accompany you, ensuring you make the most of your experience. They will assist in overcoming language barriers with locals and offer information on activities and destinations.
Joining Instructions on Day 1
If you haven't arranged an arrival transfer with Uppersia Travel, we recommend taking a taxi from Tehran International Airport to the hotel. However, if you have scheduled an arrival transfer with Uppersia Travel, our driver will pick you up and take you directly to the hotel.
Please be aware that day 1 is designated as an arrival day with no scheduled activities. Upon reaching your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), keep an eye out for a note or bulletin board at the reception from your tour leader. This note will contain information about your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (typically at 7pm), providing an opportunity to meet your tour leader and fellow travelers, and to gain insight into the tour itinerary. If you do not see a note, feel free to ask reception for further details!
Itinerary Disclaimer
While we aim to adhere to the specified details and itinerary, unforeseen circumstances may lead to changes in accommodation, transportation, or included activities. In the event of any changes, rest assured that our primary goal is to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey. Our experienced team will work diligently to make necessary adjustments while maintaining the essence of the trip experience. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding during such instances, as it allows us to navigate challenges effectively and deliver a memorable adventure for you and your fellow travelers. Your cooperation is invaluable in creating a positive and enjoyable travel experience for everyone involved.
Departure Dates
| Starting from Tehran | Ending in Tashkent | Availability | Price |
| 26/08/24 Mon | 11/09/24 | Available | $2700 |
| 02/09/24 Mon | 17/09/24 | Available (few) | $2700 |
| 09/09/24 Mon | 24/09/24 | Available | $2700 |
| 16/09/24 Mon | 01/10/24 | Available (few) | $2700 |
| 23/09/24 Mon | 08/10/24 | Available | $2700 |
| 30/09/24 Mon | 15/10/24 | Available | $2700 |
| 07/10/24 Mon | 22/10/24 | Available (few) | $2700 |
| 14/10/24 Mon | 29/10/24 | Available | $2700 |
| 21/10/24 Mon | 05/11/24 | Available | $2700 |
| 15/03/25 | 30/03/25 | Available | $2700 |
Booking Policy for this trip
If you prefer booking this tour through a travel agency in your country, kindly inform us. If we have a partner in your country, you can contact them directly to book your tour. This service does not incur any extra fees to your trip cost.
