In 2023, Kazakhstan attracted approximately 500,000 Chinese tourists, while Uzbekistan welcomes 42,000contributing to nearly 7 million visitors from all over the world.
Oleg Ivanov, former public relations director of Air Samarkand says: “The tourism market in Uzbekistan and Central Asia is growing rapidly.”
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have also invested in improving their tourism infrastructure, promoting their rich cultural heritage and offering diverse natural attractions. Central Asia has quickly become a must-see destination for travelers from around the world.
Why this should be in your 2024 travel plans:
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan offer a complete travel experience that combines rich history, stunning landscapes, cultural experiences and culinary delights.
Whether exploring ancient Silk Road cities, enjoying outdoor adventures in scenic national parks, or savoring traditional dishes, Central Asia offers diverse and memorable travel experiences in one region.
Visa
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan's new visa policies make travel easier for international tourists.
Kazakhstan today offers visa-free entry to citizens of 100 countriesincluding the United Kingdom, the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Uzbekistan has introduced Electronic visas and visas on arrival for many countries, simplify entry processes and increase their attractiveness as a travel destination.
Budget
Both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan offer more affordable travel options than many other destinations.
Food and transportation costs are generally lower than in Western Europe or North America. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable trip with luxury amenities, such as taxis and hotels, without breaking their budget. For example, a Excursion to Samarkand costs visitors only $200 for 2-3 nights and a week Trip to Almaty costs around $500-800.
One US dollar is equivalent to 12,622.13 Uzbek soms and 474 Kazakhstani tenge, making both countries affordable for the general public.
History
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are treasure troves of history and culture and are key sites along the ancient Silk Road. In Kazakhstan, visitors can explore historical sites such as the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the cities of Turkestan and Otrar.
Uzbekistan boasts architectural wonders such as Registan Square and Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand, as well as the historic cities of Bukhara and Khiva.
Instagram worthy
Central Asia offers countless Instagram-worthy moments, from the vast steppes of Kazakhstan to the breathtaking architecture of Uzbekistan.
Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake and the spectacular landscapes of Kolsai Lakes provide perfect backdrops for social media photos. The vibrant blue tiles of Shah-i-Zinda and Gur-E-Amir complex make any profile picture pop. The colorful markets, intricate tiles and picturesque vistas of Central Asia are a photographer’s and social media enthusiasts’ paradise.
Food
The cuisine of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is varied and delicious. Kazakhstan is known for its hearty dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kazy (horse sausage). Uzbekistan offers savory dishes like plov (pilaf), lagman (noodle soup), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
The cuisines of both countries reflect their rich history and offer a delicious experience for foodies.
Connectivity
An extensive road, rail and air network connects Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, making travel easy. Visitors can easily take shared taxis from Shymkent to the Zibek-Zholly border.
The region’s rail network is very efficient, with regular trains connecting major cities like Almaty and Tashkent, providing a comfortable and scenic journey. Travelers can also access restaurants on board the trains, giving Central Asian transportation a unique touch.
Moreover, the well-developed air transport infrastructure of both countries provides regular air connections from cities such as Almaty, Nur-Sultan, Tashkent and Samarkand to other global destinations, ensuring convenient access for travelers.
Suggested itinerary for visiting both countries:
Days 1-2: Almaty, Kazakhstan
Arrive in AlmatyExplore highlights including Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral and the Green BazaarVisit Shymbulak Ski Resort or Medeu Ice RinkTake a day trip to the Great Almaty Lake
Day 3: Saty, Kazakhstan
Visit Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake and Charyn CanyonVisit Issyk Lake before returning to Almaty
Days 4-5: Aksu-Zhagably Nature Reserve
Travel by train or bus from ShymkentVisit the nature reserve, go hiking, camping, etc.Stay at Ruslan Guesthouse
Day 6: Shymkent, Kazakhstan
Travel by road or train to Shymkent Visit Shymkent Zoo, Independence Park and local markets Enjoy local cuisine at traditional restaurants
Day 7: Turkestan, Kazakhstan
Take a shared taxi to TurkestanVisit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed YasawiExplore the historical sites
Days 8-9: Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Fly or take a train to Tashkent or take a shared taxi to the border. Explore the Khast Imam Complex, Chorsu Bazaar and Independence Square. Visit the beautiful stations of the Tashkent Metro
Days 10-12: Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Travel by train to Samarkand Visit Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda and Bibi-Khanym Mosque Explore Ulugh Beg Observatory and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Days 13-15: Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Travel by road or train to BukharaExplore Ark Fortress, Bolo Haouz Mosque and Lyab-i-HauzVisit Chor-Minor and Bukhara Bazaar
Days 15-16: Khiva, Uzbekistan
Travel by train or road to KhivaExplore Itchan Kala, Kunya-Ark and Kalta Minor MinaretVisit Juma Mosque and Tash Khauli Palace
Days 17-18: Return to Tashkent
Return to Tashkent and prepare for departureFinish your last-minute shopping or sightseeing
And then?
This itinerary mixes cultural, historical and natural attractions, providing a comprehensive experience of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Reducing the number of places visited or the length of your stay will shorten this itinerary. I left in Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan trip last yearand I recommend reducing the number of places rather than shortening your stay each time.
By continuing to invest in tourism infrastructure and promote sustainable practices, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will attract even more travelers, solidifying their position on the global tourism map. Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or culinary experiences, these Central Asian destinations promise memorable trips.
