To the Red Canyons of Boysun and the Darband Gorge — an Expedition Tour from Samarkand

About this tour

Travel from Samarkand on an unusual expedition to Baysun and Darband, one of the lesser-known and most impressive mountain regions of Uzbekistan. This experience is designed for travelers who want more than conventional city sightseeing and are interested in dramatic landscapes, mountain gorges, red rock formations, traditional rural life and remote corners of the country. The journey begins with an overnight train from Samarkand to Baysun. After arriving in the morning, you will meet your professional guide and begin exploring the mountain region. After breakfast, the route leads to a remarkable rock formation resembling a giant stone ship, followed by a deeper exploration of the natural and cultural heritage of Baysun. The journey continues to Sayrob Grove, known for its enormous ancient plane trees. These impressive trees create a unique atmosphere and offer a glimpse into the traditional landscapes of southern Uzbekistan. You will then visit a small museum of applied arts and discover local crafts and cultural traditions. The expedition then heads towards Darband and its mountain gorges. Along the way, visit an old water-powered mill where grain is traditionally ground into flour. Here you can discover an old rural technique and taste locally prepared flatbread. A major part of the experience is the walk through Kaputarhana Canyon and the mountain gorges of Darband. The route passes through rocky landscapes, reddish cliffs, mountain streams and narrow valleys. During the summer, there may be an opportunity to stop at the Machay River and cool off in the mountain water, depending on weather and local conditions. The hiking route continues towards the Khodzhimayota stream, where the surrounding mountain scenery becomes one of the highlights of the journey. In the mountains, you can try traditional tandoor kebab — lamb slowly cooked in a traditional clay tandoor oven. This local culinary experience adds another authentic dimension to the expedition and introduces you to the food traditions of Uzbekistan’s mountain regions. Meals are not included in the tour price and are paid separately. After 7:00 PM, board the train from Darband and travel back to Samarkand. This expedition is ideal for travelers who want to discover a different side of Uzbekistan — away from the standard tourist routes, with the mountains of Baysun, the canyons and gorges of Darband, traditional crafts, local cuisine and a genuine sense of adventure.