Things to do in Kyzylkum Desert
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kyzylkum Desert has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the Silk Road legacy around Samarkand and the desert fringe, where grand mausoleums, mosques and palaces tell centuries of history.
Registan Square
A stunning ensemble of three madrasas forming a grand public square along the ancient Silk Road.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Iconic 14th-century mosque renowned for its colossal arches and tilework.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Timurid tomb with geometric faience and a precursor to later grand burial complexes.
Museums
Dive into artifacts, ancient cities and royal residences that illuminate the region’s Silk Road history.
Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand
Museum housing artifacts from the ancient Afrasiab settlement and surrounding Silk Road sites.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace Museum
Palace complex showcasing court life and decorative arts of the emir’s era.
Ulugh Beg Observatory
16th-century astronomy site turned museum, honoring Ulugh Beg.
Religious Monuments
Religious heritage sites across Samarkand and nearby towns showcase exquisite tilework and spiritual history.
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
A sacred Islamic ensemble famed for its blue-tiled mausoleums along a walled path.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Iconic 14th-century mosque reflecting Timur-era grandeur.
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Timurid tomb with intricate faience and tranquil ceremonial ambiance.
National & Theme Parks
Escape the dunes in protected landscapes where nature and culture intertwine.
Aydarkul Lake
Expansive desert lake ideal for camel rides, boat trips and sunset views.
Arnasay Wildlife Reserve
Wetland and desert mosaic home to diverse birds and wildlife.
Nuratau-Kyzylkum Biosphere Reserve
Crossing desert plains and green valleys with traditional village life.
Neighborhoods
Wander the historic cores and old quarters where Silk Road stories live on.
Old City of Samarkand
Ancient heart of Samarkand with mosques, madrasas and bustling bazaars.
Old City of Bukhara
Cobbled lanes, pastel mosques and the characterful Ark fortress nearby.
Shakhrisabz Historic Centre
Tangible remnants of Timur’s homeland with hilltop views.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the desert’s beauty with no entry fees: vast skies and open horizons invite exploration.
Desert dune sunset walk
Stroll the dunes as the light fades over the Kyzylkum.
Star gazing in the desert
Clear desert skies reveal a brilliant canopy of stars.
Long quiet stroll along Aydarkul shores
Peaceful shorelines with expansive views across the lake.
Gastronomy
Uzbekistani flavors shine in the desert towns with comforting regional classics.
Plov (Uzbek Pilaf)
Fragrant rice pilaf with meat and vegetables, a desert staple.
Samsa
Savory pastry stuffed with meat or vegetables, baked to golden perfection.
Shurpa
Hearty meat soup with vegetables, ideal for chilly desert evenings.
Manty
Steamed dumplings filled with seasoned meat and onions.
Nightlife
After sunset, cultural venues and hospitable tea houses offer warm Uzbek hospitality.
Evening light show at Registan
Colorful illumination highlights the Registan’s grand facades.
Evening tea and traditional music
Charming sessions in Samarkand’s historic tea houses.
Caravanserai cultural evenings
Night-time performances in renovated caravanserais.
Entertainment
Live performances and Silk Road storytelling bring history alive.
Folklore and dance shows
Traditional Uzbek dances and costumes performed for visitors.
Silk Road storytelling evenings
Narrated tales of caravans and desert legends.
Desert campfire evenings
Evening gatherings with songs and local hospitality.
Sports
Active ways to experience the arid landscape.
Camel riding
Gentle camel treks through the dunes for all levels.
Desert 4x4 safari
Adventurous off-road rides across the sandy flats.
Dune hiking
Guided treks up the rolling dunes for panoramic views.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious routes to meet nomads and discover desert life.
Overnight nomad camp near Aydarkul
Experience nomadic hospitality with meals under the stars.
Visit a desert village
Interact with locals and learn traditional crafts.
Desert photography safari
Capture the stark beauty of dunes at golden hour.