Marathon Tours

SAMARKAND MARATHON – Running tour

Tour Details
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Country: Uzbekistan
Season: November
Group size: 4-60
Difficulty: Intermediate
Overview

Welcome to the Samarkand Marathon! This 5-day tour is designed for marathon enthusiasts eager to explore Samarkand, one of the most iconic cities along the Silk Road. The Samarkand Marathon is an annual sporting event held in early November. In addition to the classic 42.195 km and 21.097 km distances, shorter routes are also available, making it ideal for recreational runners and families alike. This unique experience combines sport and culture, allowing you to run past some of the city’s must-see landmarks and monuments, such as the majestic Registan Square and the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis. Let our team take care of you throughout your stay as you create unforgettable memories on the streets of Samarkand!

Highlights
  • Spectacular setting: run and explore while marvelling at the stunning beauty of Samarkand.
  • Enriching adventure: immerse yourself in ancient culture as you discover the timeless heritage of the Silk Road.
  • Oriental spirit: stroll through the alleyways of Samarkand and step into the world of the ancient Silk Road caravans.

Your adventure begins the moment you step off the plane! Upon arrival, our team will be there to greet you and handle transport to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in, you’ll be able to take some time to rest and recover from your journey.

Flexible arrivals and transfers are available, allowing you to book flights that suit you.

After breakfast, it’s time to begin exploring the historic caravan city. Your first stop will be the majestic Registan Square, a former bustling hub for caravan travellers. Next, you will visit the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, an architectural masterpiece built over 600 years ago. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at one of Samarkand’s finest restaurants. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Accommodation: charming hotel or similar category

Meals: breakfast and dinner included

Guide: English-speaking

Transport: minibus

Your second day is dedicated to continuing your exploration of the wonders of Samarkand. Your visit includes the Ulugh Beg Observatory, home to an enormous sextant, and the Afrasiyob Museum with its stunning murals. At Konigil Village, you’ll step into a world of tradition and watch skilled artisans create silk paper by hand, a timeless craft passed down through generations. Conclude the day with a stroll through Siyob Market, where the vibrant displays of fruit, vegetables and oriental spices will delight your senses. Free time for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Accommodation: charming hotel or similar category

Meals: breakfast and dinner included

Guide: English-speaking

Transport: minibus 

After breakfast, admire one of Samarkand’s most impressive landmarks, the Timurid Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Timurid dynasty’s founder. Considered one of the city’s most remarkable treasures, this architectural masterpiece showcases the grandeur of the Timurid era. Following lunch, collect your race bib near Registan Square. Optional: attend the marathon’s celebratory concert. Pasta party with the group at a local restaurant. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Accommodation: charming hotel or similar category

Meals: breakfast and dinner included

Guide: English-speaking

Transport: minibus

The big day is finally here! Today you’ll take on the challenge of the Samarkand Marathon. Be at the starting line, ready to run, by 8:30 a.m. and join thousands of runners for the race.

The race route takes you through the city’s historic quarters. After your run, you’ll have time to enjoy a well-earned rest. You can join an optional guided tour of the city starting at 3 p.m. to round off the day. Farewell dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Accommodation: charming hotel or similar category

Meals: breakfast and dinner included

Guide: English-speaking

Transport: minibus

Your adventure in Samarkand comes to an end today. We’ll arrange your airport transfer according to your flight schedule.

If you’d like to extend your stay, why not continue your journey to Bukhara and Khiva? Feel free to contact us to find out more about our extension options.

We wish you a safe journey home and hope you leave Uzbekistan with unforgettable memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I secure my marathon race bib?
Samarkand Running Tours is an official partner of the Samarkand Marathon. Once your trip is booked, one of our team members will take care of your marathon registration and secure your race bib. When booking, simply let us know which race distance(s) you would like to take part in.

Who will supervise the tour?
The trip will be supervised by a local English-speaking guide for all visits included in the programme.

Can I extend my trip to explore other cities in Uzbekistan?
You may also choose a more extensive trip to explore other iconic cities in Uzbekistan, such as Bukhara or Khiva. Please feel free to contact us for further details.

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