AACI’s Kosher Uzbekistan – 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
New Dates: October 19 – 26, 2026
As our original Uzbekistan tour sold out so quickly, we’re delighted to announce that we’ve added a second departure!
Due to the limited travel window for this region—and to ensure everyone returns to Israel in time to vote in the upcoming elections—we have designed this second tour as a slightly shorter, more streamlined itinerary of 8 Days / 7 Nights.
Although the itinerary is shorter, we have not compromised on the highlights. You will still experience the country’s most important Jewish heritage sites, along with its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
We hope you’ll join us for this unforgettable journey through one of Central Asia’s most captivating destinations.
Discover Tashkent, a captivating gateway to the Silk Road, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. This fascinating city offers a rich tapestry of Jewish heritage, from historic synagogues to enduring community traditions, alongside breathtaking architecture that reflects centuries of cultural exchange. Wander through bustling bazaars, elegant mosques, and leafy boulevards, and experience a destination steeped in timeless culture, warm hospitality, and unforgettable stories at the crossroads of civilizations. Led by AACI group leader, Yael Kalcheim-Fink and our expert guide Jacob Shoshan.
Day 1 | Monday, October 19 – Departure to Tashkent
Arrival to Tashkent. Upon arrival, English-speaking guide will meet the guests. Dinner at Praga Hotel. Overnight in Tashkent.
Day 2 | Tuesday, October 20 – Tashkent – Samarkand
After Tefillah and breakfast at the hotel, set out to discover the fascinating capital of Tashkent, where ancient history and modern Uzbekistan come together. Visit the moving Monument of Courage, a symbol of the city’s resilience, before exploring the historic Hasti Imam Complex, the spiritual heart of Tashkent. Here you’ll see the Mausoleum of Kaffal Shashi, the revered 10th-century scholar and poet, the magnificent Barak Khan Madrassah, and its renowned library, home to thousands of rare manuscripts, including one of the world’s oldest copies of the Holy Koran, traditionally believed to have belonged to Caliph Uthman.
Continue to the vibrant Chorsu Bazaar, where colorful stalls overflow with spices, fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies, offering an authentic taste of Uzbek life. Experience one of the world’s most beautifully decorated metro systems as you travel through Tashkent’s impressive subway stations.
The tour continues through the city’s elegant landmarks, including Independence Square, the lively Amir Temur Square, and Broadway Street, where local artists and craftsmen display their work. View the impressive Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre (exterior).
Following dinner at the Praga Hotel, transfer to the railway station for a comfortable high-speed train journey to the legendary Silk Road city of Samarkand, where you’ll settle in for an overnight stay in one of Central Asia’s most celebrated historic cities.
Day 3 | Wednesday, October 21 – Samarkand
After Tefilla and breakfast at the hotel, begin your exploration of the legendary Silk Road city of Samarkand, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
Your tour begins at the magnificent Registan Square, the breathtaking heart of Samarkand and one of the most iconic landmarks in Central Asia. Admire its three architectural masterpieces: the Ulugbek Madrassah (15th century), the beautifully adorned Sher-Dor Madrassah, and the stunning Tilla-Kari Madrassah, whose dazzling gold-covered interiors have earned it the name “The Gilded Madrassah.”
Continue to the historic Gumbaz Synagogue, a modest yet significant 19th-century synagogue built in traditional local style and one of the few remaining reminders of Samarkand’s once-thriving Jewish community. From here, enjoy a leisurely walk through the former Jewish Quarter, where narrow streets and historic homes offer a glimpse into centuries of Jewish life along the Silk Road.
Your journey continues to the awe-inspiring Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest and most magnificent mosques of the medieval Islamic world. Built in the 15th century, its soaring domes and monumental entrance reflect the grandeur of Timur’s empire and remain among Samarkand’s most impressive architectural treasures.
Conclude the morning at the colorful Siab Bazaar, where locals shop for fresh produce, fragrant spices, traditional sweets, and handcrafted souvenirs—an ideal place to experience the vibrant atmosphere and flavors of Uzbekistan.
Day 4 | Thursday, October 22 – Samarkand
After Tefilla and breakfast at the hotel, we continue discovering the timeless treasures of Samarkand.
Begin with a visit to the remarkable Ulugbek Observatory, one of the greatest scientific achievements of the 15th century, where the renowned astronomer and ruler Ulugbek made groundbreaking observations of the stars that were centuries ahead of their time.
Continue to the historic Jewish Cemetery, a poignant reminder of Samarkand’s once-flourishing Jewish community. Nearby, visit the fascinating Afrasiab Museum, home to magnificent 7th-century frescoes uncovered at the adjacent archaeological site, offering a vivid glimpse into the city’s rich pre-Islamic history.
Next, visit the revered Mausoleum of Khoja Daniyar, traditionally believed to be the resting place of the Biblical prophet Daniel. Set amidst peaceful gardens, this sacred site is venerated by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, making it a unique symbol of shared faith and coexistence.
Continue to the breathtaking Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles in Central Asia. Wander through its magnificent avenue of turquoise-tiled mausoleums, where members of the Timurid dynasty and other prominent figures were laid to rest.
Later, visit the nearby Hudjum Carpet Workshop to observe the intricate craftsmanship behind Uzbekistan’s world-renowned handwoven carpets. Then travel to Konigil Village, where local artisans demonstrate centuries-old techniques for producing traditional Samarkand paper from mulberry bark and extracting oil from cotton seeds using historic methods.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in the enchanting city of Samarkand.
Day 5 | Friday, October 23 – Samarkand – Bukhara
After Tefilla and breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the railway station for your comfortable high-speed train journey to the enchanting Silk Road city of Bukhara.
Upon arrival, begin exploring Bukhara, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Central Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For centuries, this legendary oasis welcomed merchants, scholars, and pilgrims traveling along the Silk Road, and today its beautifully preserved mosques, madrasahs, and bustling squares transport visitors back in time.
Visit the impressive Ark Citadel, the ancient royal fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara’s emirs for centuries. Nearby, discover the historic Registan Square, once the city’s political and commercial center.
Continue to the magnificent Po-i-Kalyan Ensemble, the spiritual heart of Sacred Bukhara. This architectural masterpiece includes the majestic Kalyan Mosque, the iconic Kalyan Minaret dating from the 12th century, and the beautiful Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, one of Central Asia’s most important Islamic educational institutions. Also see the historic Amir Alim Khan Madrasah, adding another chapter to Bukhara’s remarkable architectural heritage.
As the sun sets over the ancient domes and minarets, settle in for an overnight stay in the magical city of Bukhara.
Day 6 | Saturday October 24 – Bukhara
Visit the Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter. Enjoy a leisurely walk in Old Bukhara. The Lab-i Hauz Pool is the centerpiece of a magnificent architectural ensemble, created during the 16th and 17th centuries, which has not significantly changed since.
The ensemble, surrounding the pool on three sides, consists of the Kukeldash Madrasah (1568–1569, the largest madrasah in the city) and two religious edifices built by Nadir Divan-Beghi: a khanqah (1620) and a madrasah (1622). See the Khodja Nasreddin Effendy statue. On to the Toki Telpak Furushon Trade Dome (15th – 16th cent) and to the Karavan-Saray Sayfutdin (19th century).
Dinner & Overnight: Bukhara.
Day 7 | Sunday, October 25 – Bukhara – Tashkent
After Tefilla and breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a short drive outside Bukhara to visit the magnificent Sitorai Mohi Khosa Palace — “The Palace Like the Stars and the Moon,” the elegant summer residence of the Emir of Bukhara. Explore this enchanting blend of Oriental and Russian architectural influences, surrounded by beautiful gardens and reflecting pools.
Later, transfer to the railway station for your journey to Tashkent, upon arrival, enjoy dinner at the Praga Restaurant before transferring to your hotel for an overnight stay in Tashkent.
Day 8 – Monday, October 26 – Tashkent – Tel Aviv
Enjoy a packed breakfast from the hotel before your early morning transfer to the airport at 05:00 for your 08:05 flight back to Tel Aviv. As your unforgettable journey through the rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Uzbekistan comes to an end, take with you wonderful memories of this remarkable adventure.
| Price: $ 3,660 per person in a double room for AACI members $ 4,115 single person in a room Flights not included-to be quoted at the of registration. |
$80 pp addition for non AACI member or join AACI
Flights
Departure flight: HY 302 (Uzbekistan Airways) Monday, October 19, 2026: Departing Ben Gurion, Tel Aviv at 13:35. Arrival in Tashkent: 20:25
Return flight: HY 301 (Uzbekistan Airways) Monday, October 26, 2026: Departing Tashkent at 08:05. Arrival in Tel Aviv at 10:35
| Should the security situation result in flight cancellations that prevent travelers from joining the tour, we are committed to working with the local suppliers to provide either a refund or a travel credit. Please understand, however, that because of late-stage commitments, there are instances where a refund may unfortunately no longer be available; in such cases where a refund cannot be secured, the standard cancellation schedule will apply. |
Payment Schedule
- Upon registration $500 non refundable deposit
- Final Payment August 1, 2026
Cancellation Policy
- $500 non refundable deposit
- From August 1st-Sep 1st-30% of tour
- From -Sep 2nd-Oct 2nd 50% of tour
- Oct 2nd-Departure-no refund
Price Includes:
- Accommodation in four star hotels
- Kosher Full Board-Breakfast at the hotel+Packed lunch and Dinner
- All transportation-Air Conditioned Tourist Buses, Trains and one Domestic air ticket
- English – speaking guide
- Entrance fees to sites listed.
- Mineral water 1 L per day / per person on bus days
- Group leader and kashrut coordinator
- All tips and gratuities for staff
Does not include:
- International air tickets.
- Visa & consular fees (Israelis do not need visa)
- Any personal expenses.
- Any services not included in the above itinerary.
- Health, travel and baggage insurance
Note: It is recommended to purchase travel insurance at the time of registration that includes coverage for cancellation fees and medical expenses.
For more information, please write to info@aaci.org.il or call 972-25661181 ext 205