Ancient Khiva’s top guided experiences cut right to the heart of what makes this Silk Road city special. The basic Walking Tour ($45) hits all the right notes, with terrific English-speaking guides who know their stuff. I especially love the Private Sightseeing Tour ($75) – you’ll get 6-7 hours of undivided attention and can climb the spectacular Islam Khoja Minaret at your own pace. For the full experience, the $99 City Tour is hard to beat, covering the stunning UNESCO Old Town with transport and lunch included. While wheelchair access is limited, these tours work well for most travelers. Let’s explore the city’s very best guided options.
Key Points
- A range of walking, guided sightseeing, and city tour options in Khiva cater to different budgets and preferences.
- Tours provide knowledgeable guides, inclusions like entrance fees and lunch, and flexibility in meeting points and durations.
- Highlights of tours include exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visiting architectural marvels, and immersing in Central Asian social history.
- Most tours are not wheelchair accessible, and modest dress is recommended for cultural sensitivity.
- Positive reviews emphasize engaging content and insightful guides, though some management issues have been noted.
Khiva Walking Tour
What better way to take in Khiva’s well-preserved medieval history than through a captivating walking tour?
The Khiva Walking Tour provides an authentic experience of Central Asian social history, led by knowledgeable guides fluent in English, Russian, French, and German. Priced from $45 per person, the tour includes all fees, taxes, and lunch, while allowing visitors to choose which monuments to explore.
With a convenient meeting point at the Itchan Kala west gate and optional hotel pickup, the tour culminates back at the starting point.
Reviewers praise the tour’s engaging content and insightful guides, though some encountered issues with management and monument entrance fees.
Read our full review: Khiva Walking Tour Review
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Khiva Private Guided Sightseeing Tour
Although Khiva’s well-preserved medieval history can captivate visitors through a walking tour, a private guided sightseeing tour offers a more personalized and comprehensive experience.
This 6-7 hour tour, priced from $75 per person, includes entrance tickets, lunch, and gratuities. Visitors can explore architectural marvels, important religious sites, and climb the iconic Islam Khoja Minaret for $10.
The tour starts at 9 AM, with a flexible meeting point and the option to start from your hotel. Modest dress is recommended, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.
Read our full review: Khiva Private Guided Sightseeing Tour Review
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Khiva City Tour
The Khiva City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic walled city’s architectural marvels and cultural heritage. Priced from $99 per person, this guided tour provides transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.
With a 4.0 rating based on 2 reviews, the experience allows participants to discover Khiva’s UNESCO-listed Old Town at their own pace. The tour departs daily at 9 AM from hotels, train stations, and airports in Khiva and Urgench.
Customers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers seeking an immersive journey through Uzbekistan’s captivating Khiva.
Read our full review: Khiva City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit Khiva’s Unesco-Listed Old Town on My Own?
Yes, you can visit Khiva’s UNESCO-listed old town on your own. The town’s historic sites are easily accessible, and you can explore the architecture and narrow streets at your own pace without a guided tour.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Khiva?
The best time to visit Khiva is from March to May or September to November when temperatures are mild and there are fewer crowds. Travellers can explore the UNESCO-listed old town on their own during these shoulder seasons.
How Long Should I Plan to Spend in Khiva?
Travelers generally recommend spending 2-3 days in Khiva to fully explore the historic city’s well-preserved architecture, museums, and markets. This allows enough time to see the main attractions without feeling rushed.
Are There Any Festivals or Events in Khiva?
There are several festivals and events held in Khiva throughout the year. The most notable is the Khiva Silk and Spice Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich history as a major stop on the Silk Road.
Can I Book a Private Tour With an English-Speaking Guide?
Yes, visitors can book private tours with English-speaking guides in Khiva. These customized experiences allow travelers to explore the city’s historic sites and cultural attractions at their own pace with a knowledgeable local guide.
Recap
Khiva offers a range of captivating tours that allow visitors to explore its rich history and architectural wonders. From guided walking tours to private sightseeing experiences, travelers can enjoy the city’s cultural heritage and uncover its hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in the city’s ancient walls, mosques, or bustling markets, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to discover the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.