Sports and leisure activities Uzbekistan

Budget & Tips

The landscapes and terrain of Uzbekistan, particularly in the south and east of the country, are ideal for hiking in the Zamin reserve and in the Fansky mountains on the border with Tajikistan, where a small network of home-stay accommodation is developing in mountain villages. These activities are increasingly developed by agencies offering multi-day excursions.

Running is very popular, especially in Tashkent, where you can train all year round. Follow the Tashkent Runners on Instagram, their program or their tips. You can also run around the ramparts of Khiva or in the old town of Bukhara towards the Ark and the Bazaar. Trail enthusiasts can sign up for the Samarkand Trail in May.

What's very local

In desert areas, especially along the Kazakh border, nomadism - more like transhumance - remains widespread. Uzbek yurts are within reach of those who choose to meet these populations. Here, too, agencies offer tours for a few days' immersion in the nomadic tradition. On the program: starry skies above the yurts at night, horseback riding and discovery of the nomadic way of life.

Kourach is an ancient wrestling sport practiced by Tamerlane's soldiers, and has enjoyed a certain revival since independence. A kourach association has been set up, with members in many countries around the world, and championships are held regularly.

More picturesque,oulak is a collective equestrian sport in which a decapitated ram is used... as a ball. Two teams of five riders compete to take the carcass and put it into the opposing goal, the circle of justice, marked out on the ground, as many times as possible over a period of 20 minutes. This typical Central Asian sport is similar to the Kazakhs ' Kok Paror the Afghans' bouzkachi, also known as "flayed goat", as described by Joseph Kessel in his novel Les Cavaliers. Very common during Navrouz, the Uzbek New Year.

To be booked

During the high tourist season, you should think about booking your place under the yurt in popular spots such as the Ayaz Kala fortress or the Aydar Kul lake.