AACI’s Kosher Uzbekistan- Wait Listed
October 12–22, 2026 – This trip is now wait listed.
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.
Day 1 | Monday, October 12 – Departure to Tashkent
Begin your journey to the heart of Central Asia as we fly to Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm meet-and-greet and begin an unforgettable exploration of this fascinating country, where ancient trade routes and modern life intertwine.
Dinner: Praga Kosher Restaurant
Overnight: Tashkent
Day 2 | Tuesday, October 13 – Discovering Tashkent
Explore Tashkent, a city shaped by empires, earthquakes, and reinvention. Once a key stop along the Silk Road, later molded by Russian and Soviet influence, today it stands as a dynamic blend of old and new. Visit the Monument of Courage, Khast Imam Complex, Independence Square, and Parliament buildings. Marvel at the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, stroll through the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, and experience the city’s stunning Metro system, where each station is a work of art.
Dinner: Praga Kosher Restaurant
Overnight: Tashkent
Day 3 | Wednesday, October 14 – Khiva: A Living Museum
Fly early to Urgench, then continue to the fairytale city of Khiva, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world. Legend traces its origins to Shem, son of Noah, with archaeological roots dating back over 2,000 
years. Wander through the walled Ichan Kala (Inner City), visiting the Kalta Minor Minaret, Tash Hauli Palace, Juma Mosque, and the elegant Ismail Khuja Minaret and Madrassah. Lose yourself in narrow lanes where history comes alive at every turn.
Dinner & Overnight: Khiva
Day 4 | Thursday, October 15 – Across the Central Asian Wilderness to Bukhara
Visit the Ulli-Hovli (“Big Yard”) Complex, once a fortified military camp protecting Silk Road caravans. Continue by road through sweeping desert landscapes toward Bukhara, with insightful discussions along the way on Jewish life, Uzbek traditions, culture, and history in this remarkable region.
Dinner & Overnight: Bukhara
Day 5 | Friday, October 16 – Sacred Bukhara
Tour Bukhara, one of the most enchanting and intact medieval cities in Central Asia. Discover a dazzling collection of mosques, madrasahs, and mausoleums, including the formidable Ark Citadel, Registan Square, and the spiritual heart of the city — the Po-i-Kalan Ensemble with its iconic 12th-century minaret. Visit the Miri-Arab and Amir Alim Khan Madrassahs, architectural masterpieces that echo centuries of devotion and scholarship.
Dinner & Overnight: Bukhara
Day 6 | Shabbat, October 17 – Shabbat in Bukhara
Experience a meaningful Shabbat in Bukhara. Visit the synagogue in the Jewish Quarter and enjoy peaceful Shabbat walks through the atmospheric Old City. Relax by the Lab-i Hauz Pool, surrounded by beautifully preserved 16th–17th century structures, including the Kukeldash Madrasah and the buildings of Nadir Divan-Beghi. Continue past historic trade domes, caravanserais, and the beloved Khodja Nasreddin statue.
Dinner & Overnight: Bukhara
Day 7 | Sunday, October 18 – From Bukhara to Samarkand
We begin our morning just outside Bukhara at Sitorai Mohi Khosa, the “Palace of Stars and Moon.” This summer residence of the last Emirs of Bukhara is a stunning fusion of Oriental and European architecture, featuring intricate “ganch” plasterwork and sprawling gardens where peacocks still roam.
Afterward, we board the modern high-speed train for a scenic ride across the steppe to Samarkand, the crown jewel of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, we step into the Gur Emir Mausoleum. This architectural masterpiece, with its iconic fluted azure dome, serves as the final resting place of the great conqueror Tamerlane. Overnight: Samarkand
Dinner & Overnight: Samarkand
Day 8 | Monday, October 19 – Samarkand: Glory of the Silk Road
Uncover the splendor of Samarkand, one of the world’s most storied cities. Visit the Ulugbek Observatory, the Jewish Synagogue and Cemetery, and the revered Khodja Daniyor Mausoleum, traditionally identified as the 
burial place of the Biblical Prophet Daniel. Marvel at the breathtaking Registan Square, framed by three monumental madrassahs, and the colossal Bibi-Khanim Mosque, once the largest in the Islamic world. Conclude at the colorful Oriental Bazaar, alive with sights, scents, and sounds.
Dinner & Overnight: Samarkand
Day 8 – Monday, October 19: Prophetic Legends & Ancient Craft
Our exploration of Samarkand dives deep into the city’s scientific and spiritual soul. We start at the Ulugbek Observatory, where a 15th-century prince mapped the stars with startling accuracy. We then pay our respects at the ancient Jewish Cemetery before visiting the Afrosiob Museum to view the world-renowned 7th-century “Ambassadors’ Painting” frescoes.
The journey continues to the Mausoleum of Khodja Daniyor, a site sacred to three faiths and the presumed resting place of the Biblical Prophet Daniel. We then walk through the “Living King” necropolis, Shoi Zinda, a breathtaking avenue of blue-tiled mausoleums. We conclude the day with hands-on history: visiting the Hudjum Carpet Workshop to see silk weaving in action, and the Kuni-Gil Village, where we’ll watch craftsmen revive the 8th-century art of making Samarkand mulberry paper.
Overnight: Samarkand
Day 9 – Tuesday, October 20: The Heart of the Silk Road
Today we stand in Registan Square, perhaps the most spectacular central square in the world, flanked by three towering Madrasahs (Ulugbek, Sherdor, and Tilla-Kori) adorned with intricate mosaics and gold.
From the grandeur of the square, we transition to the intimate history of the Gumbaz Synagogue, a 19th-century gem nestled in the old Jewish quarter that remains a testament to the community’s resilience. A short walk through the atmospheric narrow streets brings us to the Bibi-Khanim Mosque, once the largest mosque in the Islamic world, built to demonstrate Tamerlane’s power. We finish our Samarkand stay at the Siyob Oriental Bazaar, a feast for the senses where you can taste the famous Samarkand bread and local sweets.
Overnight: Samarkand
Day 10 – Wednesday, October 21: Tashkent – Tradition Meets Modernity
This morning we make our way back to Tashkent. Back in the capital, we visit Amir Timur Square and the poignant Memorial to the Victims of Repression, set in a lush park. We then experience a true Uzbek spectacle at Besh Qozon, the Central Asian Plov Center, where we’ll watch chefs manage wood-fired cauldrons (kazans) large enough to feed thousands.
Following a Kosher lunch at Praga Restaurant, we explore the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in a breathtakingly decorated mansion once owned by a Russian diplomat. To wrap up the journey, enjoy some free time at the sleek Tashkent City Mall for some modern leisure and last-minute shopping before our farewell dinner.
Overnight: Tashkent
Day 11 – Thursday, October 22: Tashkent-Tel Aviv
We transfer for an early flight to Tashkent International Airport for our 08:10 flight back to Tel Aviv, carrying with us the colors, flavors, and stories of a lifetime.
| Price: $4,650 per person in a double room for AACI members $5,290 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 12, 2026: Departing Ben Gurion, Tel Aviv at 13:35. Arrival in Tashkent: 20:25
Return flight: HY 301 (Uzbekistan Airways) Thursday, October 22, 2026: Departing Tashkent at 08:10. Arrival in Tel Aviv at 11:40
| 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 July 15th
Cancellation Policy
- $500 non refundable deposit
- From July 15th-30% of tour
- From Sept 2-Sept 28th 50% of tour
- Sep 29th to 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
- FOC- group leader and kashrut coordinator- Yael Kalcheim-Fink
- All tips and gratuities for local 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