Adventure FAQs

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Tashkent International Airport (TAS)

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

We recommend booking a flight that lands before 5pm on Day 1 of your adventure in order for you to be at the hotel in time for your welcome meeting.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.

However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer. 

Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.

Departure transfers are typically not included due to travellers leaving at varying times. That said, your Pack Leader will happily help arrange departure transfers for you if required.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

• Pack Leader: $5-$6 per day
• Driver: $4-$5 per day
• Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, porters, waiters, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

We recommend budgeting around 50-60 USD per day for food, drinks and extra activities.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice– including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
• Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

• UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
• US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
• Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.

3. Government travel advice

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

Will alcohol be included with meals on this tour?

Alcohol is not included in the meals on this tour. This is out of respect for our local partners as well as the cultural norms of Uzbekistan, where alcohol is not typically served with meals in more traditional or rural settings.

That said, you are welcome to purchase your own alcoholic drinks during the trip where available. In cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, you’ll find restaurants and shops that do serve or sell alcohol.

We ask that guests are mindful and respectful of the local customs throughout the trip. Your Pack Leader will be able to provide more guidance on this throughout the tour.

Are there any early starts on this tour?

Just one — but it’s worth it!

• Day 8: Train from Samarkand to Tashkent

  We’ll depart early (around 4.50am) to catch one of the only morning trains. A light breakfast will be provided for the journey, or you can eat once we arrive in Tashkent.

You’ll then have free time to relax from 1–6pm, so there’s plenty of space to rest and recharge. This early start ensures you get the most out of your final day without feeling rushed.

What’s the accommodation standards on this trip?

You’ll be staying in handpicked 3–4 star boutique hotels. Expect clean, comfortable rooms with plenty of local character. Standards can vary a little compared with what you might find in the West, but that’s all part of the charm — from family-run hotels to smaller, rustic stays that bring the Silk Road spirit to life.

What's the dress code?

Uzbekistan is a Muslim-majority country, but dress codes are relaxed in cities. Out of respect, modest dress (shoulders/knees covered) is recommended for visiting mosques and mausoleums.

Are there any long drives on this tour?

Yes — Day 4 and Day 6 both include longer drives, but they’re designed to be as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

• Day 4: Around 6–7 hours from Khiva to Bukhara

• Day 6: Around 4–5 hours from Bukhara to Samarkand

We could have opted for the train, but this would mean 6am departures. Driving allows for later starts and the chance to enjoy the journey at a gentler pace. Along the way, you’ll stop for comfort breaks, snacks, and photo opportunities to soak up the sweeping desert landscapes.

Will the itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.