From sunrise walks through ancient cities to lakeside picnics and mountain breezes — here's how to enjoy Uzbekistan in the heat.
Explore ancient cities in the early morning or at sunset
Start your days in Samarkand, Bukhara, or Khiva before the midday heat kicks in. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are ideal for wandering through architectural wonders like the Registan, Poi-Kalyan, and Itchan Kala. The lighting is perfect for photos, and the crowds are minimal.
Cool off in the mountains of Chimgan or the Tien Shan foothills
The Chimgan Mountains, located just 1.5 hours from Tashkent, offer a perfect escape from the heat. Hike to waterfalls, ride the cable car, or enjoy horseback riding in shady forests. Nearby resorts and guesthouses often have pools and cold mountain streams.
Swim and relax at Charvak Lake
Charvak Reservoir is a favorite summer destination for both locals and tourists. You can swim, jet-ski, rent a paddle boat, or simply relax on the shore. Many hotels and cafes offer shaded seating with panoramic views.
Discover desert life in a yurt camp
Spend a night in the Kyzylkum Desert in a traditional yurt. Enjoy camel rides, stargazing, and folk music under the open sky. Despite the heat, desert nights are surprisingly cool and peaceful.
Visit the Savitsky Museum and explore Karakalpakstan
Summer is a great time for an expedition to western Uzbekistan. Visit the Nukus Art Museum (Savitsky Museum), explore the remains of the Aral Sea, and learn about Karakalpak culture. Tours often start early to avoid the hottest hours.
Enjoy Tashkent’s green parks and modern cafés
The capital city is full of shade and greenery. Stroll through Central Park, explore Japanese or Botanical Gardens, or take refuge in air-conditioned museums and shopping malls. In the evening, head to rooftop restaurants or live music venues.
Take the Afrosiyob high-speed train between cities
Traveling between Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent is fast and comfortable thanks to the Afrosiyob train. It’s air-conditioned, reliable, and a great way to see the changing landscapes — all without sitting in the heat.
Enjoy fresh summer produce at local bazaars
Uzbekistan’s summer markets are bursting with juicy melons, cherries, apricots, and figs. Head to Siab Bazaar in Samarkand or Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent early in the day and treat yourself to the taste of the season.
Visit shady madrasahs and caravanserais
In historic cities, many madrasahs and caravanserais offer naturally cool courtyards where you can rest in the shade. Some are now turned into handicraft centers or tea houses — a great place to shop and relax.
Stay at boutique guesthouses with gardens and pools
Many family-run guesthouses offer lush inner courtyards filled with vines, flowers, and fountains — an oasis during hot afternoons. Some even include small pools or hammams.
Try cold traditional drinks like ayran, kvas, and sumalak ice cream
Cool off the local way. Ayran — a salted yogurt drink, fermented bread kvas, or even artisan ice cream made from sumalak — a wheat-based spring treat, are popular local refreshers.
Attend summer festivals and night markets
Check local calendars for summer events — from music festivals in Tashkent to cultural celebrations in regions like Fergana or Surkhandarya. Some cities host night markets or evening light shows on their main squares.
