For those planning their first trip to Uzbekistan, we provide essential information covering topics such as the best seasons for travel, attire, safety, and internet connectivity.
Location of Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is situated in Central Asia.
Roughly speaking, Central Asia is located to the east of Turkey and to the west of China.
Best Seasons for Tourism
Uzbekistan has a climate with minimal rainfall, frequent sunny days, and dry conditions.
However, there is a significant temperature difference between winter and summer, with winter temperatures dropping below freezing and summer experiencing days over 40°C.
The optimal travel seasons are from early April to late May or from August to late October.
Keep in mind that spring may have occasional rainy days.
June to July represents the hottest period of midsummer, and from November to early March, it can be chilly with the possibility of snowfall.
One of the highlights of traveling in Uzbekistan is the array of fruits available.
In spring, the original tulip species start to bloom, and around May, fruits like cherries and apricots make their appearance.
By June, it’s the season for summer fruits such as watermelons, melons, and peaches. Melons, with their various types, are particularly sweet and ripe. Anticipating the diverse fruits at hotel breakfast becomes a daily pleasure.
In July, grapes begin to ripen. September is delightful too, with watermelons, melons, and grapes still available, making it a pleasant time for strolling through the bazaars.
How Many Days for a Trip to Uzbekistan?
A common question is about the ideal duration for a trip to Uzbekistan.
While it varies based on personal availability and preferences, a rough overview of tour lengths is provided.
For Exploring All 4 UNESCO World Heritage Cities: 7 Nights, 8 Days
Uzbekistan hosts 4 towns recognized as UNESCO Historical World Heritage sites: the Blue City Samarkand, Timur’s hometown Shakhrisabz, the cultural ancient city Bukhara, and the museum city Khiva.
Khiva, with its distinct and intriguing culture, requires additional travel time from the capital Tashkent. To fully explore all four, a recommended duration is 7 nights and 8 days.
For Leisurely Exploration of Three World Heritage Cities without Khiva: 5 Nights, 6 Days
As mentioned earlier, Khiva located furthest to the west and requiring significant travel time.
If you choose not to visit Khiva and focus on exploring the three World Heritage Sites, a typical duration would be 5 nights and 6 days.
Express Tour with Only Samarkand: 3 Nights, 4 Days
For those who are specifically interested in Samarkand or have limited time, a quick tour with 3 nights and 4 days might be suitable.
Spend two nights in Samarkand, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the city’s historic sites.
Uzbekistan Travel Clothing
Uzbekistan experiences significant temperature variations between summer and winter, and the temperatures can significantly change even during mornings and evenings.
Especially in mid-March to April and November, temperatures can change quickly. It’s not uncommon to go from wearing short sleeves just two days ago to suddenly needing a down coat due to the cold.
From June to August, even in the hot summer, it’s recommended to have a lightweight long-sleeved layer. For sun protection, having a light outer garment is advisable in the summer.
Given the intense UV rays, wearing a hat and sunglasses is also necessary.
While entry to mosques and prayer places is usually not strictly denied, it’s preferable to avoid exposing too much skin out of respect for local religious rules.
Reference for Clothing in Each Season of Uzbekistan Travel
Security in Uzbekistan
Crime is relatively low, and the culture of hospitality towards visitors, makes locals very kind and likely to approach travelers in a friendly manner.
However, occasional incidents of pickpocketing or theft may occur, so it’s recommended to avoid carrying large sums of money. Be cautious in crowded places like bazaars or buses.
As many hotels lack safes, consider keeping valuables within easy reach, such as inside your jacket.
Walking alone at night, especially for women, or going out in small groups is not highly recommended. Women should firmly decline advances from men.
Traffic manners are not always ideal, with many cars driving at high speeds even on regular roads. Pedestrians might not have the right of way, so be cautious.
Religion in Uzbekistan
Over 90% of Uzbekistan’s population follows Islam. Recently, there’s more religious freedom, and there’s a growing trend of people adhering to Islamic teachings.
Is Alcohol Allowed in Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan has a history of wine and beer production, and there are factories for these beverages.
Additionally, during the Soviet era, there was a culture of consuming vodka, allowing alcohol to be served in many restaurants.
However, there’s a current trend where some restaurants do not serve alcohol. You can also purchase alcohol at liquor stores and street vendors.
Currency Exchange Information
Currency in Uzbekistan
The currency of Uzbekistan is the “So’m.” As of January 2024, the largest banknote is 200,000 So’m.
The exchange rate fluctuates daily, approximately 1 USD ≈ 12,320 So’m (as of January 2024).
Where Can I Exchange Money During the Trip?
Upon arriving in Uzbekistan by plane, the first place for currency exchange is within the airport, on the floor where baggage is retrieved.
After completing immigration, there are counters on both ends where you can exchange currency. Additionally, large hotels and banks also offer currency exchange services.
Uzbekistan’s Voltage and Plugs
Uzbekistan operates on a voltage of 220V with a frequency of 50Hz.
The plug type is C, which accommodates plugs with two round pins.
Before traveling, please check the voltage compatibility of your electrical appliances and bring adapters or transformers if necessary.
Internet Situation in Uzbekistan
Many hotels provide Wi-Fi, but it’s advisable to confirm this during the reservation process.
If Wi-Fi is available at your hotel, you will be provided with the password at the front desk.
Sim cards can be purchased at the airport, allowing internet access. While the speed may not be extremely fast, it is generally sufficient for regular use unless streaming videos.
Sim cards can be purchased in the baggage claim area at Tashkent airport.