{"id":10140,"date":"2022-08-23T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-23T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/?p=10140\/"},"modified":"2026-01-20T13:24:56","modified_gmt":"2026-01-20T11:24:56","slug":"uzbekistan-travel-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-travel-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips and how to travel to Uzbekistan (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel.jpg\" alt=\"Uzbekistan Travel\" class=\"wp-image-10160\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Once a hermetic country with very strict visa policies for foreigners, Uzbekistan has opened its borders to show the world the majesty of what used to be the core and center of the ancient Silk Road, a country filled with impressive shrines, mosques and perfectly shaped old cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Uzbekistan is, by far, the most tourist-friendly <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-central-asia\/\">country in Central Asia<\/a><\/strong> and an unmissable destination for sightseeing city lovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, this ex-Soviet Republic has many bureaucratic and cultural peculiarities, which you are highly recommended to know well in advance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this Uzbekistan travel guide,&nbsp;we will go through all of them, so here is a list of<strong> useful tips for traveling to Uzbekistan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"convertkit-form wp-block-convertkit-form\" style=\"\"><script async data-uid=\"b182b9783d\" src=\"https:\/\/exceptional-creator-2216.kit.com\/b182b9783d\/index.js\" data-jetpack-boost=\"ignore\" data-no-defer=\"1\" nowprocket><\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-guide-685x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-guide-685x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-guide-685x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Uzbekistan Travel Guide\" class=\"wp-image-10162\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:500px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this Uzbekistan travel guide you will find:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group table-of-contents is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"table-of-contents__title\" style=\"font-size:20px\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#2\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Visa<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#3\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel Insurance<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#4\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Useful books<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#5\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">A Silk Road country<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#13\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Internet<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#6\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Money in Uzbekistan<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#7\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Getting in<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#8\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Border crossings<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#9\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Cultural facts<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#12\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Food<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#12\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Accommodation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#12\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Transportation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#14\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">More resources<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fe9900\">our recommended travel insurance for Uzbekistan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:20px\">With its Backpacker plan, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=uzbekistan_itinerary_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Uzbekistan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-text-align-center has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=uzbekistan_itinerary_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\">\ud83e\udeaa Visa for traveling to Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FREE visa on arrival for Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2019, requirements for traveling to Uzbekistan were eased, when they finally offered a <strong>30-day free visa on arrival<\/strong> for most nationalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This VOA is valid in both airports and land borders and it applies to all Western nationalities, <strong>EXCEPT<\/strong> for the USA. Here you can see the <strong><a aria-label=\"updated list (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/mfa.uz\/en\/pages\/visa-republic-uzb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">updated list<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">e-visa for Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Those nationalities which can&#8217;t get a VOA &#8211; and that includes nationals from the USA and India &#8211; can apply for an e-visa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s a very easy process which only costs 20USD, takes 2-3 working days and this is <strong><a aria-label=\"the official website (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/e-visa.gov.uz\/main\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">the official website<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By default, you will get a 30-day visa, but it is also possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa. Unlike some years ago, the entry date is not fixed but you can enter any day you like within a 90-day period. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to apply for an Uzbek e-visa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Apparently, the system has issues with some email domains, the photo format and, basically, it has quite a few bugs. Nowadays, however, most travelers do apply successfully, and all common issues and tips are <strong><a aria-label=\"well-explained here (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/caravanistan.com\/visa\/uzbekistan\/#picture-upload-and-form-issues\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"rank-math-link\">well-explained here<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visa for Uzbekistan via embassy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the unlikely case the e-visa doesn&#8217;t work for you, you will have to go to the embassy, so I recommend starting to apply well-in-advance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, it would be a 1-week process in which you would need a passport copy, 2 passport photos, your hotel reservation, and your <strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/evisa.mfa.uz\/evisa_en\/\" target=\"_blank\">visa application form<\/a><\/strong> (printed and filled out).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By the way, one relevant difference vs the e-visa is that, with an embassy visa, the entry and exit dates are fixed, so you need to state the specific days you will be traveling in Uzbekistan and you can\u2019t modify them. This means that you can\u2019t enter before the entry date or leave after the exit date you specified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">For more information and details, read this post:&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-visa-dushanbe-tajikistan\/\">Getting a visa for Uzbekistan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-9026\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/visa-uzbekistan.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/visa-uzbekistan.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/visa-uzbekistan.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-9026\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>My visa for Uzbekistan<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\">\ud83d\ude91 Travel Insurance Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=uzbekistan_travelguide_en_own\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> is the most versatile insurance for any type of trip and destination, including Uzbekistan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-medium-font-size\">\n<li>Different plans for each kind of travelers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Budget plans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Covers senior citizens too<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Readers of this blog can get a <strong>5% exclusive discount<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-499968f5 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=uzbekistan_travelguide_en_own\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>BUY IT HERE TO GET YOUR 5% DISCOUNT<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\">\ud83d\udcda Books for traveling in Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">Here you have the most typical options, but if you want to get deeper, I recommend you check this list, containing the <strong><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/books-central-asia\/\">28 best books on the Silk Road and the Stans<\/a><\/strong>, with specific books on Uzbekistan<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Uzbekistan travel guide by Bradt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The most complete guide to Uzbekistan. I am a heavy consumer of Bradt Guides, as they give more local insights and personal experience than any other book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B082B5BVDQ\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B082B5BVDQ&amp;linkId=4194b7d05446110727f069c9ab1b760f\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/download-1.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/download-1.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"177\" height=\"285\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/download-1.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-22372\" style=\"width:172px;height:277px\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Central Asia travel guide by Lonely Planet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If you are traveling to other countries in Central Asia, you may want to buy the generic guide in order to save some money. It contains a full chapter dedicated to Uzbekistan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1786574640\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1786574640&amp;linkId=6e3cb689546d15a61ba30b1a6279cfb7\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/61-cujrpflL._SX324_BO1204203200_.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/61-cujrpflL._SX324_BO1204203200_.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/61-cujrpflL._SX324_BO1204203200_.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-21366\" style=\"width:183px;height:280px\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Murder in Samarkand by Craig Murray<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If you want to know about all the human rights abuse during the regime from the previous president, this is the best book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1975977920\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1975977920&amp;linkId=ac8f8bcfb869ab312be0ad81a010de84\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/download-2.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/download-2.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"181\" height=\"278\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/download-2.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-22374\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\">Tourism in Uzbekistan, a Silk Road country<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Uzbekistan is the core of the Silk Road<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Uzbekistan is synonymous with the Silk Road, a country which is home to the three most important Silk Road cities, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Timeless mosques and historical buildings define a characteristic skyline in every city, Uzbekistan has been the main stopover for countless civilizations traveling east and west, while exchanging goods, ideas, and knowledge. Traveling in Uzbekistan and strolling downs its bazaars and old cities is like going back to the past.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The most majestic shrines and buildings I have ever seen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From the imposing Registan to the cute, old city of Khiva, Uzbekistan is the perfect destination for travelers interested in stunning Islamic architecture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">It&#8217;s surprisingly touristic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Who would guess that the streets of the ancient Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan were filled with plenty of touristic shops, selling things from typical souvenirs to traditional local handicrafts, something unseen in Central Asia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tourist profile<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While the most common tourist in Kyrgyzstan is a young backpacker, the main tourist in Uzbekistan is a 50-80-year old person who travels in a tour group. Actually, during high season, there are tens of groups all over the cities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">However, outside of the three main cities, there is nobody<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In places like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-to-visit-in-tashkent\/\">Tashkent<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/moynaq-aral-sea-uzbekistan\/\">Moynaq and the Aral Sea<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/fergana-valley-uzbekistan\/\">Fergana Valley<\/a><\/strong>, we barely saw any tourist and the local interactions were much more rewarding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10182\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-information-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-information-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-information-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Uzbekistan Travel Information\" class=\"wp-image-10182\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>So many souvenir shops! &#8211; Uzbekistan Travel Information<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13\">\ud83d\udcbb Internet and connectivity in Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical card, with the added benefit that you can buy it online before or during your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it in a local store.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airalo.com\/uzbekistan-esim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Airalo<\/a><\/strong>, you can get an eSIM for a wide range of destinations, including <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airalo.com\/uzbekistan-esim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Uzbekistan<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Internet is just OK<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Internet is not as good as in Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan but it\u2019s definitely better than Tajikistan. Most hotels will have decent Wi-Fi and 3G works perfectly well throughout the country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get a SIM Card<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Get Beeline, with which, for a couple of USD, you will get plenty of data and calls. It is very easy to buy a SIM Card and all you need is your passport.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get a VPN for traveling in Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Your connection will be much safer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Uzbekistan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">I recommend <strong>ExpressVPN<\/strong> &#8211; Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/go.expressvpn.com\/c\/2203603\/1481117\/16063?subId1=uzbekistan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#dd3333\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Get a vpn<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">If you want to learn more about VPN, check: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/vpn-travel\/\"><strong>Why you need a VPN for traveling<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6\">\ud83d\udcb0 About MONEY: What you need to know when traveling in Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In Uzbekistan, they use the <strong>Uzbek SUM (UZS)<\/strong>. The currency value is extremely low and approximately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-vivid-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>1 USD = 13,000 UZS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cash and ATMs in Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some years ago, ATMs in Uzbekistan didn&#8217;t accept foreign cards but that has drastically changed now. There are loads of ATMs that you can use absolutely everywhere, even in markets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear in mind, however, that with an international card, in some ATMs you can only withdraw USD, which you need to exchange at the bank. This way, they can charge you commission twice and by the way, when you withdraw, <strong>the commission is 1%.<\/strong> In practice nevertheless, this is not being the case anymore and today, more and more ATMs do give Uzbek SUM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fcc3b7\"><strong>By the way, bring a spare backpack for the cash<\/strong><br>Sometimes, whatever quantity you change, they will give you all the money in 1,000UZS notes, meaning that you will be carrying 3 kilograms of cash. It\u2019s very inconvenient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exchanging money in Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>You can change money in most banks &#8211; <\/strong>Some years ago, the official bank rate was almost 100% lower than on the black market, so nobody wanted to exchange money in banks. This changed and, finally, the official rate has gone up to its actual value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This means that you can now exchange money in banks, which can easily be found all over the cities. The best part is that some banks give you bigger notes, so there is no need to carry ten packs of cash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>You can still get money in the black market &#8211; <\/strong>However, I don\u2019t recommend it, as they are the ones who always give you smaller notes and, when you count them, you always notice that there are one or two notes missing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does it cost traveling to Uzbekistan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Traveling in Uzbekistan is not as cheap as in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/kyrgyzstan\/\">Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/strong> or <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/tajikistan\/\">Tajikistan<\/a><\/strong> but, still, it&#8217;s very affordable. Typically: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Budget accommodation: from 8 to 12USD<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mid-range hotels: from 30 or 40USD. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A meal in touristic restaurants: 5USD<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A meal in local eateries: 2-3USD&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Taxis within cities:&nbsp; a maximum of 2USD <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Several-hour train journeys: a maximum of 10 or 15USD<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fcc3b7\"><strong>Most restaurants charge for service<\/strong>, which ranges from 10 to 20%, depending on the restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-10175\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/020713_0.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/020713_0.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/020713_0.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-10175\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>You will be carrying so many notes when traveling in Uzbekistan<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7\">\ud83d\udeeb How to get to Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling to Uzbekistan by plane<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Uzbekistan has the most expensive flights in <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-central-asia\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>all Central Asia<\/strong><\/a> and the reason is that the airport taxes are extremely high. Apparently, along with a more liberal visa regime, the Government is planning to reverse it in order to encourage more tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are on a budget and have enough time, you could fly to Almaty, Bishkek or Dushanbe and then <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tajikistan-uzbekistan-border-crossing\/\">enter Uzbekistan overland<\/a><\/strong>. From Europe, flights there are surprisingly cheap, especially to Bishkek. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-to-iran-ultimate-survival-guide\/\">traveling in Iran<\/a><\/strong>, there are very cheap flights <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-tehran\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>from Tehran<\/strong><\/a> to Aktau, a city in western Kazakhstan, very close to the Uzbek border.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-azerbaijan-travel-itinerary\/\">traveling in Azerbaijan<\/a><\/strong>, you can even take a ferry to Aktau or fly there, which is much quicker and even cheaper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Personally, I started with a 2-month <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kyrgyzstan\/\">itinerary in Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/strong>, traveled in Tajikistan <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/pamir-highway\/\">through the Pamir Highway<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wakhan-valley-tajikistan\/\">Wakhan Valley<\/a><\/strong>, and entered Uzbekistan through the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/fergana-valley-uzbekistan\/\">Fergana Valley<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling to Uzbekistan via a land border<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Uzbekistan shares a border with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kazakhstan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kyrgyzstan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tajikistan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turkmenistan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Afghanistan &#8211; It&#8217;s important, however, to check the latest security update. Read my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-afghanistan-safe\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"27847\"><strong>Afghanistan safety guide<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>All borders are easy to cross, as long as you have a valid visa, especially for Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10168\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/tourism-in-uzbekistan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/tourism-in-uzbekistan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/tourism-in-uzbekistan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Tourism in Uzbekistan\" class=\"wp-image-10168\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Tourism in Uzbekistan &#8211; Chor Minor, Bukhara<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8\">Border crossing and other bureaucratic rules when traveling in Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Most borders are open to overland travelers &#8211;<\/strong> As long as you have the visa, you can enter or exit Uzbekistan from any country, but just bear in mind that some borders are only open to nationals, while others may close temporarily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, all countries will have, at least, one or two entry points always open. For the latest updated information on border policy, check the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/caravanistan.com\/border-crossings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Caravanistan<\/a><\/strong> website. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>They will go through all your stuff &#8211; <\/strong>Especially laptops, phones, and cameras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fcc3b7\">With the exponential tourism increase, the guards don&#8217;t really go through your stuff anymore.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don\u2019t bring any sensitive material &#8211; <\/strong>By sensitive I mean porn or any politically sensitive photos, including Governmental buildings or military stuff. If you happen to have some, upload them to the cloud or hide them very well in your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>However, at some border crossings, it\u2019s not as bad as people say &#8211;<\/strong> I heard horror stories about Uzbek customs but, when I <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tajikistan-uzbekistan-border-crossing\/\">crossed from Tajikistan to the Fergana Valley<\/a><\/strong>, they just checked the photos of my DSLR camera and it seemed they were more looking at my pictures for fun than looking for sensitive photos, as the official was smiling and calling some of his colleagues to check them out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>They are also looking for drugs &#8211; <\/strong>And especially anything containing codeine. They will definitely, go through all your meds and, apparently, even if you have prescription pills containing codeine, they won\u2019t allow you to enter with them and you may get in real trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>You will have to declare all your money, both entering and exiting &#8211;<\/strong> When you enter, you need to fill in a form, stating how much are you traveling with. You are supposed to keep this form because, when you leave, they will compare it with how much money you have left. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you happen to have the same amount of money or more, they will assume that you worked there, so you might get into some problems. However, this rule may not apply in some borders because I left through Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-10179\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-guide.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-guide.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Uzbekistan Guide\" class=\"wp-image-10179\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Uzbekistan Guide &#8211; A photo from when I was crossing to Kazakhstan by train<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9\">Uzbekistan 10 facts: the country, its people and their culture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1 &#8211; Uzbekistan is an ex-Soviet Republic &#8211;<\/strong> Which got its independence in 1991, after the USSR dissolution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2 &#8211; Most people are Uzbeks &#8211; <\/strong>But,&nbsp;as in the whole Central Asia, you also find plenty of people from their neighboring countries, including <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-travel-guide\/\">Russians<\/a><\/strong>, Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, and Tajiks. People in Uzbekistan are so ethnically mixed but, whereas Kyrgyz and Kazakh people have stronger Mongolian features, and Tajiks and Turkmens more of a Persian look, I would say that Uzbeks are something in between.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3 &#8211; The official language is Uzbek &#8211; <\/strong>Which is a Turkic language, but most people also speak Russian as a second language. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4 &#8211; Learn some Russian &#8211; <\/strong>They use the Cyrillic alphabet and practically nobody speaks English, except in the touristic parts. Some basic words to get around will prove immensely useful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5 &#8211; They are Sunni Muslims but not really &#8211;<\/strong> Officially, most people are Sunni Muslims, the Russian population (10%) being Christian Orthodox. However, like all ex-Soviet countries, religion is not a big deal and most people don&#8217;t really follow Islam. If I had to compare it to the rest of Central Asia, I would say that religion in Uzbekistan is practiced more than in Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan but less than in Tajikistan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6 &#8211; No real dress code for women &#8211; <\/strong>Many Uzbek women are veiled but it\u2019s mostly for cultural reasons, rather than religious. Except in some parts of the Fergana Valley, women can go as they please, within certain common-sense limitations, of course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10164\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-tourism-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-tourism-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-tourism-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Uzbekistan tourism\" class=\"wp-image-10164\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Uzbekistan Travel Guide &#8211; Local women in Samarkand<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>7 &#8211; Is Islam partially forbidden? &#8211; <\/strong>The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/fergana-valley-uzbekistan\/\">Fergana Valley in Uzbekistan<\/a><\/strong> is home to the most radical Islamic group in Central Asia, an organization which even operated in <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-afghanistan\/\"><strong>Afghanistan<\/strong><\/a> under the Taliban. The Uzbek Government has tried hard to eradicate this group and, from what I heard, it has put some limitations on the way people practice Islam. For example, during prayer time, you will never hear the mosque\u2019s speakers. I was told that this is one of several governmental measures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>8 &#8211; It\u2019s a dictatorship &#8211; <\/strong>The first President of Uzbekistan ruled from its independence, in 1991, to 2016, when he died. He ruled under an authoritarian regime and didn\u2019t forge many good international relationships. The new President is trying to change this though, the growth of tourism being one of the many new policies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9 &#8211; But people don\u2019t really care about politics &#8211; <\/strong>Uzbeks told me that the only thing they care about is inflation and nobody is interested in politics. There is no freedom of speech and you can\u2019t say anything bad about the president or any governmental organization. They are OK with it so, according to them, a revolution will not happen any time soon.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>10 &#8211; The cotton crisis &#8211; <\/strong>Uzbekistan&#8217;s main economical pillar is the cotton industry and you will see plenty of cotton fields all over the country. Being so dependant on cotton has led to several crises and problems, the most dramatic one being the destruction of the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/moynaq-aral-sea-uzbekistan\/\">Aral Sea in Uzbekistan<\/a><\/strong>. In Nukus, I met the European Union delegate in Uzbekistan, who told me that, with the new President, they are strongly trying to diversify the economy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10170\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/about-uzbekistan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/about-uzbekistan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/about-uzbekistan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"about uzbekistan\" class=\"wp-image-10170\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Traveling to Uzbekistan &#8211; Local people during sunrise in Khiva<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10\">\ud83c\udf72 Food and alcohol when traveling in Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plov, plov, plov &#8211; <\/strong>Welcome to the world capital of <em>plov<\/em>, a Central Asian dish consisting of fried rice in lamb fat, meat and different vegetables. There are many kinds of <em>plov<\/em> and it varies by region. Uzbek people find it a real delicacy and they love it so much that, in the capital <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-to-visit-in-tashkent\/\">Tashkent<\/a><\/strong>, they even have a Central Asian Plov Center, a massive building serving only <em>plov<\/em>. After more than 5 months in Central Asia, I really hated <em>plov<\/em>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>But typical Central Asian food is also available &#8211; <\/strong><em>Laghman <\/em>(noodles soup), <em>manti <\/em>(dumplings), <em>shashlik<\/em> (kebab) are popular dishes which you can eat when <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan\/\">traveling in Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/strong> or Tajikistan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>More good restaurant options than in neighboring countries &#8211; <\/strong>Since it\u2019s more touristic, you also find a wider range of options, especially serving international cuisine. For me, that was really an edge, especially after <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-central-asia\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>traveling in Central Asia<\/strong><\/a> for such a long time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10034\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/tashkent-things-to-do-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/tashkent-things-to-do-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/tashkent-things-to-do-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Tashkent things to do\" class=\"wp-image-10034\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Uzbekistan Travel Guide &#8211; Central Asian Plov Center<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Alcohol is widely available &#8211; <\/strong>Vodka, beer and everything you want!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>And local wine, as well! &#8211;<\/strong> Uzbekistan is the largest wine producer in Central Asia and its wine is not that bad, actually!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>If you are a vegetarian, you are fucked &#8211;<\/strong> Well, not fucked but local cuisine mostly consists of meat and sometimes it\u2019s even hard to find chicken. However, like I said, in the touristic places there are several options and, on most menus there are vegetarian options made ad-hoc for tourists. Additionally, your best bet will be the local markets, where you can find all sorts of vegetables, as well as Korean salads. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Loads of fruit! &#8211;<\/strong> Most of the fruit is grown in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/fergana-valley-uzbekistan\/\">Fergana Valley<\/a><\/strong>, it\u2019s absolutely delicious and there is a lot of variety. When I was there in October, it was grapes and melons season!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10177\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/travel-in-uzbekistan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/travel-in-uzbekistan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/travel-in-uzbekistan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Travel in Uzbekistan\" class=\"wp-image-10177\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Travel in Uzbekistan &#8211; Samarkand local market<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11\">\ud83c\udfe8 Accommodation: where to stay in Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Budget hostels and guest houses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">There is a wide range of budget hostels and guest houses in most cities in Uzbekistan. Most of them are very good value and the perfect place to meet other travelers alike. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-499968f5 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/guest-house\/country\/uz.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=uzbekistan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO FIND THE BEST GUEST HOUSES IN UZBEKISTAN<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hotels in Uzbekistan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">There are also endless mid-range and luxury options in all main cities in Uzbekistan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-499968f5 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/country\/uz.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=uzbekistan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO FIND THE BEST HOTELS IN UZBEKISTAN<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fcc3b7\"><strong>You always pay a 2USD registration fee &#8211; <\/strong>At any hotel, you always pay an extra 2USD per night you stay. This is a bit annoying for budget backpackers, as 2USD can sometimes be almost 30% of a dorm-bed price. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keep your registration payslips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">All hotels will give you a registration payslip that proves that you stayed there. You are likely to be asked for all your payslips when leaving the country. Basically, they are extremely paranoid and need proof of your actual itinerary, which you will show once, when you are leaving the country. Typically, they just require a payslip for every other day or two days. This means that, if you are camping or stay at people\u2019s places, you would need to stay in a hotel every two days, at least. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Couchsurfing is supposedly illegal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">However, you can find many profiles with reviews, so locals don\u2019t really care about it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-10160\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/uzbekistan-travel-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Uzbekistan Travel\" class=\"wp-image-10160\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Uzbekistan Travel Blog &#8211; The imposing Registan<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12\">\ud83d\udefa How to move around Uzbekistan: transportation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling around Uzbekistan by train<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Trains are the way to travel in Uzbekistan. Most cities are connected by train, they run very regularly and are very comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Some tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>It\u2019s recommended to book your train tickets in advance<\/strong> &#8211; Especially for long-distance trains. You can book them at the train station itself and always remember to bring your passport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>There are different kinds of train &#8211; <\/strong>There is a regular, modern train and the high-speed one. They are built by a Spanish company, so they have many similarities to the AVE and other Spanish trains. Furthermore, there is the Russian train, which is the classic old one from the Soviet Union times. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>You must try the Soviet train at least once &#8211; <\/strong>Traveling long distance on a Russian train is an experience by itself. I took it from Samarkand, all the way west to Kazakhstan, on a 32-hour journey. You are most likely to be the only foreigner on board and everybody is super friendly with you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling around Uzbekistan by shared taxi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Also common and really cheap. Between cities, it\u2019s common to travel in shared taxis, which cost even less than a train. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Only in Tashkent, there is metro and it was inspired by the one in Moscow or Saint Petersburg and it\u2019s a delightful masterpiece. For more information, read: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-to-visit-in-tashkent\/\">Places to visit in Tashkent<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-13052\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/what-to-see-in-uzbekistan.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/what-to-see-in-uzbekistan.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/what-to-see-in-uzbekistan.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-13052\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Somewhere in the Old City of Khiva<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14\">\u2757 More information for traveling to Uzbekistan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2b8f2b\">\ud83d\udce2 In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-resources\/\"><strong>Travel Resources Page<\/strong><\/a> you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">All guides and articles for traveling in Uzbekistan destination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/fergana-valley-uzbekistan\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel Guide to Fergana Valley<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/moynaq-aral-sea-uzbekistan\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel Guide to Moynaq<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-to-visit-in-tashkent\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tashkent Travel Guide<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tajikistan-uzbekistan-border-crossing\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tajikistan-Uzbekistan border crossing<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-itinerary\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Uzbekistan Itinerary<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel guides to other countries in Central Asia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-tajikistan\/\">Tajikistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan\/\">Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-kazakhstan\/\">Travel Guide to Kazakhstan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-know-before-trip-to-pakistan\/\">Pakistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-afghanistan\/\">Afghanistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tsaatan-nomads\/\">How to visit the Tsaatan reindeer herders in Mongolia<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/viaje-uzbekistan-685x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/viaje-uzbekistan-685x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/viaje-uzbekistan-685x1024.jpg\" alt=\"traveling uzbekistan\" class=\"wp-image-10156\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:466px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Once a hermetic country with very strict visa policies for foreigners, Uzbekistan has opened its borders to show the world the majesty of what used to be the core and center of the ancient Silk Road, a country filled with impressive shrines, mosques and perfectly shaped old cities. Uzbekistan is, by far, the most tourist-friendly [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":10160,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[229,208,164],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10140","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uzbekistan","category-central-asia","category-travel-guides"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10140","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10140"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10140\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":56704,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10140\/revisions\/56704"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10160"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10140"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10140"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10140"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}