Seven Lakes Tour with Hotel Pickup and Local Lunch in Samarkand
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8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the magical Seven Lakes of Tajikistan on a full-day private tour from Samarkand! Visit the ancient city of Sarazm, explore Panjikent, enjoy a delicious traditional Tajik lunch, hike to stunning viewpoints, and immerse yourself in local culture and legends. Comfortable transport and a friendly guide make this an unforgettable adventure.
Available options
Seven Lakes Tour with Hotel Pickup and Local Lunch in Samarkand
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport with water, local guide, visits to Sarazm, Panjikent, and Seven Lakes, traditional Tajik lunch, and local cultural experience.
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour starts with hotel pickup in Samarkand. We drive for approximately 35 minutes to reach the Panjakent border. After border formalities, travelers cross the border on foot, where our partner vehicle and local guide will be waiting on the Tajikistan side.
From there, the journey continues toward the breathtaking Seven Lakes (Haft Kul) area near Panjakent. Along the way, travelers enjoy scenic mountain landscapes and photo stops.
Upon arrival at the Seven Lakes, guests have time to explore the lakes, enjoy panoramic views, and take photos surrounded by crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain scenery.
The tour also includes a stop at a nearby local village to experience traditional Tajik culture and lifestyle, followed by a traditional local lunch at a family home or restaurant.
After the visit, travelers return back to the border, cross into Uzbekistan, and are transferred back to their hotels in Samarkand.
2
Meet your driver at your hotel in Samarkand and transfer to the Uzbek–Tajik border. Upon arrival, cross the border on foot to complete immigration formalities. After crossing, a vehicle on the Tajikistan side will meet you and take you to Panjikent.
In Panjikent, visit the ancient city of Sarazm and see the main sights of the city. Stop for a traditional local lunch before continuing to the scenic Seven Lakes area, enjoying mountain landscapes along the way.
3
Visit all seven lakes of the Seven Lakes area: Nezhigon, Soya, Gushor, Nofin, Khurdak, Marguzor, and Hazorchashma.
Travel along the 15 km route with stops at each lake. You can reach Marguzor by car, but Hazorchashma, the highest lake at 2,332 m, requires a short 2.5 km hike.
Enjoy stunning mountain views, take photos, and learn about local legends, ancient petroglyphs, and the history of the area.
Full exploration usually takes around 3–4 hours.
4
After visiting the Seven Lakes, drive back to the Panjakent border and cross into Uzbekistan. Your driver will then take you back to your hotel in Samarkand, ending the tour.
What's not included
Personal expenses Souvenirs Travel insurance Visa and border fees
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
Travelers will receive a direct entry ticket via email or mobile. Optional add-on available: entrance fees included for $X per person. Show your ticket at the meeting point.
About Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, known for its rich history and stunning Islamic architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with landmarks that reflect the city's status as a hub on the ancient Silk Road.
Top Attractions
Registan Square
Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand, featuring three stunning madrasahs (Islamic schools) with intricate tile work and towering minarets. It's one of the most iconic sights in Central Asia.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
This mausoleum is the burial place of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. It's known for its stunning blue tile work and intricate design.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
This ancient necropolis is a collection of stunning mausoleums and tombs, known for their intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere. It's a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
This grand mosque was built by Timur in honor of his favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym. It's one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world and features stunning architecture and tile work.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Siab Bazaar
This bustling bazaar is a great place to experience local life and sample traditional Uzbek food. It's a sensory overload with its colors, smells, and sounds.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, budget for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plov
Plov is a rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, and onions. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is often served at celebrations.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Lagman
Lagman is a noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for colder weather.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Samsa
Samsa are baked pastries filled with meat, onions, and spices. They're a popular street food and are often sold at bazaars.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Non
Non is a traditional Uzbek bread, often baked in a tandoor oven. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is served with most meals.
Bread
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Exploring historic sites
Horseback riding
Visiting tea houses
Enjoying a traditional hammam (bathhouse)
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best weather for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Uzbek
- Widely spoken: Russian
- English: Limited
Currency
Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
Time Zone
UTC+5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Samarkand is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets and scams
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
Getting there
By air
- Samarkand International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Samarkand Railway Station
By bus
Samarkand Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are often crowded but are a good way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Afrosiab
Kuk-Saroy
Day trips
Shakhrisabz
90 km from Samarkand • Full day
Shakhrisabz is a historic city known for its stunning architecture and ties to Timur (Tamerlane). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with several impressive ruins and monuments.
Penjikent
120 km from Samarkand • Full day
Penjikent is a charming town in Tajikistan, known for its historic ruins and natural beauty. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and the outdoors.
Ulugbek's Observatory
5 km from Samarkand • Half day
Ulugbek's Observatory is a historic site dedicated to the astronomical work of Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of astronomy and science in Central Asia.
Festivals
Silk and Spices Festival • May
Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the city's many historic sites
- Visit the bazaars early in the morning for the best selection and atmosphere
- Try local specialties like plov, lagman, and samsa at traditional restaurants and street food stalls
- Consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay for a more local and authentic experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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