Uzbekistan / Oʻzbekiston Respublikasi / Ўзбекистон Республикаси – Let’s explore here

Uzbekistan is a very hot and dry, landlocked country in central Asia. In fact it is one of only two doubly-landlocked countries in the world, the other being Liechtenstein. A doubly-landlocked country is a country that is landlocked, and completely surrounded by other landlocked countries.

It has a very long, rich and interesting history. In former times it was a major trading and stopping point for those on the Silk Road. Its neighbours include Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. In summer it reaches very high temperatures and due to the sand, in winter it’s very cold.

View of Khiva in Uzbekistan
Khiva in Uzbekistan

Current travels

On our current journey we’ll travel from Kazakhstan across the flat desert to the ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samaraqand. From there we’ll move on to the capital, Tashkent, before exploring the eastern cities of Namangan, Fergana and Kokand.

Our travels through Uzbekistan take us through Tajen – Khiva – Bukhara – Samaraqand – Tashkent – Namangan – Fergana – Kokand – Patar

What currency do they use in Uzbekistan?

In Uzbekistan they use the Uzbek som. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is not widely accepted outside of the capital, Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted at banks. There are a few ATMs in all major cities now and in some towns. Dollars and Euros can be accepted for many purchases.

You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.

What language do they speak in Uzbekistan?

They speak Russian and Uzbek in Uzbekistan. English is not widely spoken outside of, or even inside the capital.

What time zone is Uzbekistan in?

Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.

Do I need a visa to visit Uzbekistan?

We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!

What’s it like to drive in Uzbekistan?

We’ve also created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which you might find helpful 🙂

Is wild camping legal in Uzbekistan?

Yes, wild camping is fine in Uzbekistan.

If you’ve got some awesome pictures, or some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know! 

And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!

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