Khorezm Desert Fortresses
Ellikqala District, Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan
1 Day (7–8 hours)
Max 10 People
Moderate
Tour Guide
Description
Across the Amu Darya, at the edge of the Kyzylkum desert, stand the clay fortresses of ancient Khorezm, a kingdom that flourished here long before Khiva. Built more than two thousand years ago to guard oases and caravan routes, their walls and towers still rise from the sand.
Visit Kyzyl-Kala with its restored walls, the palace-city of Toprak-Kala, once a capital of Khorezm, and the fortresses of Ayaz-Kala on their hilltop, with sweeping views over the desert. It is one of the most atmospheric day trips in Uzbekistan.
Not included: entrance fees and lunch (a meal is usually possible at a yurt camp by Ayaz-Kala). The sites involve walking and some climbing on sandy slopes, so wear good shoes, a hat and sun cream. For groups of more than 10 people, please contact us.
Itinerary
An early start from your hotel and a drive north across the Amu Darya.
A compact square fortress whose thick clay walls have been partly restored.
The ruins of a walled palace-city that was a capital of ancient Khorezm, with the remains of halls, stairways and courtyards.
A group of fortresses crowning a desert hill. Climb to the upper fort for the view, then rest at the yurt camp below.
Back at your hotel in the late afternoon.
What's Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Private car with driver
- English-speaking guide
- Bottled water
Tour Map
- 1Khiva
- 2Kyzyl-Kala
- 3Toprak-Kala
- 4Ayaz-Kala
- 5Return to Khiva
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