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Uzbekistan & Tajikistan

Faculty: Carlisle Chambers, Jeff Vargason, and Adam Long
Class Meeting Time: Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Trip Dates: May, 2026
Cost: $2,400

Architecture in Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Highlights

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with our trip to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, where ancient history, rugged landscapes, and vibrant cultures come together! Uzbekistan is a land of dazzling turquoise mosques, ancient Silk Road cities, bustling bazaars, and breathtaking desert landscapes. Wander through the fairy-tale streets of Samarkand, where the majestic Registan Square glows under a full moon. Get lost in the winding alleyways of Bukhara, one of ancient Persia’s most important cultural and spiritual centers. Savor the rich flavors of plov, sip tea in a traditional chaikhana, immerse yourself in the warmth of Uzbek hospitality, marvel at the stunning architecture, ride a camel in the desert, or shop for an authentic, handwoven (magic) carpet. Then journey into the majesty of Tajikistan’s Fan Mountains, home to the legendary Seven Lakes, a series of sapphire-blue lakes, each more mesmerizing than the last. Hike through rugged valleys, soak in panoramic alpine vistas, and experience the warm hospitality of the local mountain communities. Whether you're chasing history, culture, raw natural beauty, or all of the above, this trip is for true explorers. Adventure is calling—are you ready?

NOTE: This trip will include some long days of travel, hiking, and camping. Participants must be willing to occasionally deal with minimal accommodations and possible adverse conditions.

Tentative Itinerary

Day 1 Travel from Portland to Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Day 2 Tashkent: Kimyo International University Tashkent
Day 3 Tashkent: Chorsu Bazaar, Khast Imom mosque
Day 4 Travel to Samarkand
Day 5 Samarkand: Registan, Ulugbek Medressa
Day 6 Samarkand: Bibi-Khanym mosque, Shah-i-Zinda shrines
Day 7 Travel to Bukhara
Day 8 Bukhara: Kukeldash Medressa
Day 9 Bukhara: Maghok-i-Attar bazaar
Day 10 Travel to Penjikent, Tajikistan
Day 11 Penjikent: Sarazm, Mazor-i-Shariff shrines
Day 12 Travel to Haft-Kul: ‘The Seven Lakes’
Day 13 Trekking and camping in Haft-Kul
Day 14 Trekking and camping in Haft-Kul
Day 15 Trekking and camping in Haft-Kul
Day 16 Travel to Dushanbe
Day 17 Dushanbe: Shah Mansur bazaar
Day 18 Travel to Tashkent
Day 19 Return to US