Family Travel in Uzbekistan

If you are contemplating traveling the Silk Road with kids, Uzbekistan should be the first destination on your list. This remarkable country offers an exciting and eclectic combination of attractions that are also very child-friendly.

Why Choose Uzbekistan for Family Travel?

Uzbekistanis have a deep appreciation for children and often travel with their extended families—making it common to see three generations enjoying their time together. Consequently, hotels, restaurants, and attractions are well-equipped to cater to the needs of everyone, from toddlers to grandparents.

While Uzbekistan’s summer heat and long distances can pose challenges, the country’s high-speed trains have air conditioning, making travel easier. Therefore, it is simple to organize an itinerary that focuses on shorter travel legs suited for families.

Two boys splash in a small water fountain in front of a domed and tiled mosque — High-speed train links Tashkent to Samarkand and Bukhara © Hans Neleman / Getty Images

Is Uzbekistan Suitable for Kids?

Uzbekistan provides a welcoming environment for families. It is effortless to explore with children, as locals are inclined to assist visitors. Moreover, you will find that cities have well-paved streets and squares, making stroller use convenient and safe.

Top Destinations in Uzbekistan for Families

The best places to visit in Uzbekistan with children include the UNESCO-listed Silk Road cities, while stunning landscapes—ranging from deserts to mountain ranges—offer equally engaging experiences. Consequently, this variety makes Uzbekistan a prime destination for families.

Begin your journey in Tashkent, then take the high-speed train to Samarkand and Bukhara. Further, you can explore the Chimgan Mountains for skiing or venture into the Kyzylkum Desert for an exciting yurt stay.

A couple of puppeteers perform with large puppets in the street of a city — Watch performances by roaming puppeteers in the streets of Khiva © sergio capuzzimati / Shutterstock

Activities for Babies and Toddlers

Enjoy a Puppet Show

Puppetry has a rich history in Uzbekistan, with dedicated puppet theaters in Tashkent and Bukhara, while Khiva features street puppeteers with larger-than-life puppets. These performances often resonate with universal stories, making them entertaining for all ages.

Relax in Parks and Gardens

Despite being primarily desert, Uzbekistan boasts numerous well-maintained parks where local families gather. The Japanese Garden in Tashkent, Ak Serai in Shakhrisabz, and Samani Park in Bukhara are excellent spots for relaxation and play.

A round white yurt tent in a desert area with a large camel in front — A night in a yurt or a camel ride are experiences that the kids won’t forget © Lina Shatalova / Getty Images

Activities for Older Kids

Explore Historical Fortresses

Fortresses spread across Uzbekistan provide thrilling opportunities for exploration. The well-preserved structures allow children to envision life as soldiers or citizens enduring sieges.

Discover Khiva’s Ichon-Qala

The entirety of Khiva’s Old City functions as an open-air museum, rife with entertainment. Minarets, madrassas, and mosques create a visually stunning environment, where spontaneous cultural performances frequently entertain visitors.

Stargaze from a Yurt

Uzbekistan’s vast expanses offer stunning opportunities for stargazing. Staying in a yurt provides an unparalleled experience for children, paired with camel rides and evening bonfires, marking unforgettable family memories.

Beat the Heat at Water Parks

With summer temperatures soaring, water parks in Tashkent and Namangan offer perfect relief and entertainment, featuring wave pools, water slides, and even open-air discos for special evening fun.

A child on a sledge heads down a slope dotted with people playing in the snow — Keep the whole family entertained with snow sports in Uzbekistan’s mountain resorts © Denis Finyagin / Shutterstock

Tweens and Teenagers: Engage in More Activities

Learn to Ski at Amirsoy

Available from December to April, Uzbekistan’s Amirsoy ski resort near Tashkent offers a fantastic winter sports experience. With international-standard facilities, it is an economical option compared to European resorts, ensuring enjoyment for all ages.

Visit the Aral Sea

A chance to learn about environmental change comes with a visit to the Aral Sea, accessible via rugged travel through breathtaking landscapes. This trip stimulates discussions about climate impact and human history.

Travel Planning Tips

Uzbekistan Airways provides discounted fares for young travelers, making air travel easier for families. The Afrosiyob high-speed train connects major cities and ensures a comfortable journey with essential amenities.

It is advisable to bring familiar baby food and medications, as local supermarkets might not stock your preferred brands. While Uzbeks do not typically offer children’s menus, the cuisine is generally not spicy, offering plenty of options for even picky eaters.