Embark on a thrilling desert odyssey from Khiva to the Aral Sea, exploring ship graveyards, ancient fortresses, and sleeping under starry skies in a yurt.
Embark on a thrilling desert odyssey from Khiva to the Aral Sea, exploring ship graveyards, ancient fortresses, and sleeping under starry skies in a yurt.
Ships Cemetery - The Ship Cemetery, also known as the “Graveyard of Ships,” near Moynaq, Uzbekistan, is one of Central Asia’s most striking and emotional sights. Numerous rusting fishing vessels and trawlers are abandoned in the arid desert, far from the water that once supported them. This haunting landscape serves as a powerful reminder of the…
Ships Cemetery - The Ship Cemetery, also known as the “Graveyard of Ships,” near Moynaq, Uzbekistan, is one of Central Asia’s most striking and emotional sights. Numerous rusting fishing vessels and trawlers are abandoned in the arid desert, far from the water that once supported them. This haunting landscape serves as a powerful reminder of the Aral Sea’s tragic disappearance—once the world’s fourth-largest lake.
The Regional History and Aral Sea Museum - The Aral Sea Museum in Moynaq, Uzbekistan, is a small yet profoundly impactful museum dedicated to the ecological disaster of the Aral Sea. Moynaq, once a bustling fishing town, now stands as a symbol of one of the world’s most severe man-made environmental catastrophes. Here’s what visitors can explore inside:
Historical Maps & Photos – Illustrating the rapid decline of the Aral Sea from the 1960s to the present.
Fishing Industry Relics – Featuring old nets, ship wheels, and Soviet-era documents from Moynaq’s history as a thriving fishing port.
Ecological Impact Displays – Providing insights into how cotton irrigation policies led to the sea’s desiccation, resulting in dust storms, health issues, and economic downfall.
Ustyurt Platosi - This tour is the perfect introduction to the Aral Sea and its surroundings, with stops at the Ustyurt Plateau and Canyons.
Aral Sea - ✔ Swimming is optional—feel free to relax on the shore if preferred.
✔ Wear swimwear under clothing (no changing facilities available).
✔ Bring a towel, sunscreen, and extra water.
✔ The water is salty—take care to avoid getting it in your eyes.
Freshwater Rinse-Off – After swimming, there is clean water available to wash off the salt before continuing your journey.
Arrive at the yurt camp on the shores of the Aral Sea. (Dinner and overnight stay in a traditional Karakalpak yurt).
Transfer from Aral Sea yurt to Khiva
Mizdakhan Necropolis - This expansive 7th-century BC necropolis is one of Central Asia’s oldest and most mystical burial sites. Situated on three hills, it combines Zoroastrian, Islamic, and local Karakalpak traditions with a captivating beauty.
Chilpik Dakhma/Kala - This 2,000-year-old circular tower is one of Central Asia’s best-preserved Zoroastrian “dakhmas” (Towers of Silence). Used for sky burials, it offers stunning desert views and a glimpse into pre-Islamic funeral practices.
- 4x4 Vehicle for desert journey
- Private Transportation
- Pick up and Drop Off Service (Khiva / Nukus / Urgench)
- 4x4 Vehicle for desert journey
- Private Transportation
- Pick up and Drop Off Service (Khiva / Nukus / Urgench)
- Yurt Camp 45 usd per person ( Included Dinner and Breakfast )
- Entry tickets to Aral Sea Museum ( 3 USD )
- Guide
- Other and personal expenses which is not specified in the programm
- Yurt Camp 45 usd per person ( Included Dinner and Breakfast )
- Entry tickets to Aral Sea Museum ( 3 USD )
- Guide
- Other and personal expenses which is not specified in the programm
Day 1: Ship Graveyard & Desert Odyssey
Cemetery of Ships – Stroll among the haunting, rusted remains of abandoned fishing boats in Muynak.
Aral Sea Museum – View a moving documentary about the ecological decline of the sea.
Ustyurt Plateau Off-Road Adventure – Embark on a 4x4 journey through surreal canyons and desert cliffs, with…
Day 1: Ship Graveyard & Desert Odyssey
Cemetery of Ships – Stroll among the haunting, rusted remains of abandoned fishing boats in Muynak.
Aral Sea Museum – View a moving documentary about the ecological decline of the sea.
Ustyurt Plateau Off-Road Adventure – Embark on a 4x4 journey through surreal canyons and desert cliffs, with opportunities for photos!
Kurgancha-Kala Fortress – Discover a 13th-century Silk Road outpost on the plateau.
Overnight in a Yurt Camp – Enjoy a night under the starry skies by the Aral Sea, complete with a traditional Karakalpak dinner.
Day 2: Ancient Necropolis & Return
Mizdakhan Necropolis – Explore 2,500-year-old tombs, mausoleums, and Zoroastrian artifacts.
Chilpik Dakhma – Visit Central Asia’s best-preserved Zoroastrian “dakhmas” (Towers of Silence). Used for sky burials, it provides haunting desert views and insight into pre-Islamic funeral practices.
End of the Tour – Return to Khiva / Nukus / Urgench in the afternoon between 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Drop-off at your hotel, airport, or train station. Address selection is available.
- Dress warmly for the night in the yurt
- Bring cash for personal expenses as ATMs may be scarce
- Check weather conditions and prepare accordingly
- Not suitable for pregnant women
- this tour is self-guided . Our drivers are fully trained on all itineraries and will take great care of you during your tour.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
