Exploring the rich history of Uzbekistan can be an exhilarating experience, and a self-guided day trip to the top three fortresses departing from Khiva is an excellent way to do just that. This flexible tour allows visitors to enjoy the stunning architecture and breathtaking views of Kyzyl Qala, Toprak Qala, and Ayaz Qala at their own pace, with essential information to ensure an enriching visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an adventurer, this unique opportunity to discover these ancient treasures is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more.
Good To Know

- This day trip from Khiva explores three top fortresses: Kyzyl Qala, Toprak Qala, and Ayaz Qala over 7 hours.
- The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets, lunch, an English-speaking guide, and gratuities.
- Flexible departure times are available, with pickup options from a central meeting point or hotel in Khiva.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible but service animals are permitted, and infants must sit on laps.
- Pricing starts at $60 per person, with a "reserve now, pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Overview of the Tour

This day trip from Khiva offers travelers the chance to explore the top three fortresses in the region.
The tour lasts 7 hours and includes an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets, lunch, an English-speaking guide, and gratuities.
The itinerary covers three key fortresses: Kyzyl Qala, Toprak Qala, and Ayaz Qala.
Guests can expect flexible departure times, with the option to be picked up from a central meeting point or their hotel in Khiva.
The tour ends back at the original pickup location.
This private experience ensures that only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized and enriching exploration of these historic Khiva landmarks.
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Itinerary Breakdown

The tour departs from Khiva at 9:00 AM, though this time is flexible upon request.
The first stop is Kyzyl Qala, less than an hour’s drive away. From there, the tour proceeds to Toprak Qala, just a 10-minute drive.
Visitors then travel to Ayaz Qala, a 45-minute journey. The return trip to Khiva takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
A lunch break is included if needed during the day. The tour ends at the original meeting point, either the Itchan Kala west gate or the Ota Darvoza gate.
Pickup and Drop-off Details
Pickup options for this tour include meeting at the Itchan Kala west gate or Ota Darvoza gate in Khiva. Alternatively, guests can be picked up directly from their hotel in Khiva.
The tour ends back at the original meeting point. This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. It’s conveniently located near public transportation, and infants must sit on laps during the tour.
- Pickup options: meeting point or hotel in Khiva
- Meeting point: Itchan Kala west gate, Ota Darvoza gate
- End point: Returns to the meeting point
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets to the three fortresses, a provided lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
Gratuities for the guide and driver are also covered. The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate. The tour starts and ends at the meeting point, which is the Itchan Kala west gate or Ota Darvoza gate in Khiva.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
Pricing for the Top 3 Fortresses in Khiva tour starts at $60.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the size of the group.
The tour offers a flexible booking experience, with a "Reserve now, pay later" option available. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour begins, providing flexibility for travelers.
- Prices start at $60.00 and fluctuate based on group size
- "Reserve now, pay later" option available
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
- Flexible departure time upon request
- Private tour with only your group participating
Tour Highlights
What makes the Top 3 Fortresses in Khiva tour a must-do experience? This full-day excursion takes you beyond the city walls to discover the region’s most impressive historical sites.
You’ll visit Kyzyl Qala, an ancient mud-brick fortress with impressive views, Toprak Qala, an 8th-century archaeological site, and Ayaz Qala, a hilltop fortress dating back to the 4th century BC.
With transportation, entry fees, and an expert English-speaking guide included, this tour offers a hassle-free way to explore Khiva’s rich heritage.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to soak in the stunning desert landscapes, this day trip promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Guest Reviews

Glowing guest reviews attest to the tour’s exceptional value and unforgettable experience. The tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating based on a single review, with the reviewer praising the tour’s highlights:
- The driver was very friendly and accommodating
- The fortresses were magnificent and a must-see
- The overall tour provided excellent value for money
- The flexibility of the departure time was appreciated
- The tour’s seamless organization and execution were standout features
Clearly, this tour offers a remarkable opportunity to explore Khiva’s captivating historical sites, with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, leaving guests thoroughly satisfied.
Additional Information
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted.
The tour’s pickup and drop-off locations are flexible, with options to meet at the Itchan Kala west gate or Ota Darvoza gate, or be picked up directly from your hotel in Khiva. The tour returns to the original meeting point.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour operates near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. Pricing starts at $60.00 and varies based on group size, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The "pay later" option is also available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Refreshments Provided During the Tour?
The tour includes a lunch break, but it does not specify if any other refreshments are provided. The tour’s inclusions mention an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets, lunch, and an English guide, but do not list any additional refreshments.
Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?
Yes, this tour is suitable for solo travelers. The tour price is per person, and the group size is flexible, so solo travelers can participate without issue. The private tour format ensures you’ll have a personalized experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour can be extended upon request. Travelers have the flexibility to customize the duration of the experience to explore the fortresses more thoroughly or include additional sites in the itinerary.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?
Absolutely, customers can customize the itinerary to visit additional sites. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate requests to extend the duration or modify the destinations based on the traveler’s interests.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?
You don’t need any special equipment or gear for this tour. The air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets, and English-speaking guide are all included. Just bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the magnificent fortresses.
Sum Up
This self-guided day trip from Khiva offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and stunning architecture of three renowned fortresses in Uzbekistan. Visitors can enjoy the ancient past at their own pace, enjoying breathtaking views and insightful information on each site. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an adventurer, this flexible tour is a must-do for discovering these captivating historical treasures.
