What to Know Before Visiting Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is the core of Central Asia that is becoming a popular travel destination due to its historical, cultural and architectural magnificence. Uzbekistan is known to have ancient cities of the Silk Road including Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva that provide an enchanting experience of Islamic architecture, liveliness of bazaars and hospitable people. With more and more travelers finding the desire to have off the beaten path experiences, this fascinating country is becoming increasingly popular among tourists all over the world. 

But, on the way to packing your bags, it is important to know the travel requirements, cultural expectations, and important tips that will make your trip smooth. Whether it is learning how to get your Uzbekistan Visa or deciding the best time to visit, this guide will help you know all you need before you set foot in this Central Asian gem.

Here are the tips to Know Before Visiting Uzbekistan

1. Uzbekistan Visa Requirements 

Visa requirements are one of the things that any traveler should investigate early enough. Fortunately, Uzbekistan has made the procedure easier to most nationalities via the use of the Uzbekistan e-visa application system. The majority of tourists are able to request an e-visa through the internet, and this fact removes the necessity to go to an embassy or consulate. 

How to apply Uzbekistan E-Visa: 

• Applicants: The e-visa is available to more than 70 countries. 

• Processing Time: This is normally 3 working days. 

• Validity: 90 days within the issuance date, the stay is 30 days. 

• Fee: About 20 to 25 USD, depending on the nationality of the applicant. 

• When applying to Uzbekistan, one should apply a week in advance to obtain the visa in order to avoid delays. 

Required Documents: 

• An authentic passport, which has 6 months of validity. 

• A digital passport size photo. 

• Travel program and hotel information (not compulsory but advisable). 

2. When to Visit Uzbekistan 

• Uzbekistan is a continental climate country where summer is hot and winter is cold. The best periods to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) when it is warm and the sceneries are beautiful. 

• Spring: It is the best time to visit historical cities and go hiking in mountains. 

• Autumn: Perfect to have cultural festivals, harvest, and beautiful views to shoot pictures. 

• In case you do not like extreme heat, especially in Tashkent and Samarkand, do not visit during July and August. 

3. Money and Currency issues 

• The currency in use is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). The outside of Tashkent remains a cash-based society. 

• Major cities have a wide network of ATMs, but they do not necessarily accept foreign cards. 

• Exchange of currency can be done in banks, hotels and official exchange counters. 

• Be prepared with some small-denomination UZS when in taxis, local markets or rural regions. 

• Hint: You can download an offline currency converter such as XE or OANDA to keep track of costs. 

4. Communication and language 

Uzbek is the official language, although there is wide use of the Russian language. English is becoming popular to young people and in tourism hotspots. 

Useful phrases: 

• Hello: Salom 

• Thanks: Rahmat 

• Yes/No: Ha / Yo‘q 

• A couple of basic phrases will help you get a long way in gaining the respect of the locals and making your trip more pleasant. 

5. Culture, Customs and Etiquette 

Uzbekistan is a large Muslim state, however, it is a moderate culture, and highly tourist friendly. 

Do’s: 

• Wear decently, more so when attending sacred places. 

• Either in someone home or in a mosque, shoes are always taken off. 

• Be respectful to the elders and local culture. 

Don’ts: 

• Resist PDA. 

• Do not take photos of locals (women in particular) without their consent. 

• Do not bring or talk about sensitive political problems. 

6. Transport and Moving Around 

• Improved infrastructure has made it simple to move around Uzbekistan. 

• Domestic Flights: Quick and cheap between big cities. 

• High-Speed Trains: Links Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara effectively. 

• Shared Taxis: Common and cheap, particularly, in the countryside. 

• Public Transport: It is affordable, but it may be busy and disorienting to the first-time visitor. 

• In case you would like to have a stress-free travelling experience, you can also rent a personal driver or book a local tour with agencies. 

7. Safety and Health 

Uzbekistan is relatively safe to tourists. There is a low incidence of violent crime but petty theft is possible in crowded areas. 

Traveling Safety Tips: 

• Carry a copy of your passport and visa always. 

• It is better not to walk alone at night in the unfamiliar places. 

• Drink plenty of water and bottled water, particularly in the country. 

• It is strongly advisable to be insured with a travel insurance covering health, accidents and theft. 

8. Internet, SIM Cards & Connectivity 

Hotels, cafes and airports have Wi-Fi, and it may not be reliable. To have good coverage it is advisable to purchase a local SIM card. 

Popular mobile operators are: 

• Ucell 

• Beeline 

• Uzmobile 

• SIM cards are widely accessible and cheap. To buy one you will have to produce your passport. 

9. Uzbek Food and Drink 

The Uzbek cuisine is substantial and rich, strongly affected by the Turkic, Persian and Russian culture. 

Must-Try Dishes: 

• Plov: The national dish which is prepared with rice, lamb, carrots and spices. 

• Lagman: Vegetables and meat hand-pulled noodle soup. 

• Samsa: Pie with minced meat or pumpkin. 

• Warning: Street food is tasty, however, eat only at places with a high turnover to prevent food-borne illness. 

Conclusion 

Uzbekistan is a state where the ancient traditions and the modern hospitality are combined. It is a place that can make an indelible mark with its spectacular architecture, historic sites and friendly people. Pre-planning, particularly on logistical aspects such as transport, accommodation, and health safety will make the process a lot easier. 

Above all, you should remember to apply your visa to Uzbekistan early enough. The Uzbekistan e-visa application system is convenient and allows international tourists to enjoy this jewel of Central Asia more than ever before without the trouble of bureaucracy.