Accessible travel in Uzbekistan

Accessibility in Uzbekistan is improving, especially in Tashkent and at major new developments, but it remains limited compared with Western Europe or North America. The historic monuments were built centuries ago, with steps, raised thresholds and uneven courtyards. Pavements in old towns are often cobbled or broken, ramps are rare or steep, and adapted toilets are uncommon.

That said, Uzbeks are extremely helpful: people will often offer to lift a wheelchair over a step or help with doors. With realistic expectations and good planning, a rewarding trip is possible.

• Samarkand: the Registan square itself is open and paved, and the courtyards of the madrasahs are reachable, though entrances have steps. The Gur-Emir has steps at the entrance. The Shah-i-Zinda has a long staircase at the start, making it difficult. The Bibi-Khanym courtyard is fairly level. See the Registan.
• Bukhara: the old town around Lyabi-Hauz is relatively flat, and the area around the Poi-Kalyan square is paved. The Ark has a steep ramp. The trading domes have uneven floors but can be passed through.
• Khiva: Ichan-Kala is compact but has cobbles, steps and many raised thresholds; the main street is walkable with help, but climbing the walls or minarets is not possible.
• Tashkent: modern areas, parks and newer museums are the most accessible.

A local guide can plan the best order of visits and find level entrances.

• Private car with driver: the most practical option, door-to-door. Ask for a larger vehicle, such as a minivan, if you need space for a wheelchair. Specially adapted vehicles with ramps or lifts are rare; discuss your needs in advance. See our transfer service.
• Trains: the Afrosiyob has steps at the doors, and platforms are not always level with the train; station staff can help. See trains in Uzbekistan.
• Flights: request special assistance when booking; airports in Tashkent and other cities can provide help with boarding. See Tashkent airport.
• Taxis: ordinary cars; folding wheelchairs fit in the boot of most, but space may be limited by gas cylinders.

Many traditional guesthouses in old towns have steps, narrow doors and no lifts. Larger, newer hotels in Tashkent and Samarkand are more likely to have lifts, step-free entrances and adapted rooms. When booking, ask specific questions: is there a lift? Are there steps to the entrance and the room? How wide is the bathroom door? Is there a walk-in shower? Ask for photos if possible.

7–8 days: Tashkent (2 nights) → Samarkand by train or car (3 nights) → Bukhara (2 nights) → fly back to Tashkent from Bukhara. This avoids the long desert road to Khiva and the most difficult old town. If you want to see Khiva, fly to Urgench and stay in a hotel just outside the walls, with a car to the gates. See Bukhara airport and Tashkent to Bukhara.

Travellers who can walk short distances but tire easily should allow plenty of rest, avoid the summer heat and choose spring or autumn. A folding stool or walking stick is useful. See also Uzbekistan for seniors.

• Tell your tour operator, hotels and airlines about your needs in advance.
• Travel with a companion who can help.
• Bring spare parts or a repair kit for your wheelchair; specialist repairs are hard to find.
• Bring any medical supplies you need; see Uzbekistan customs rules for medicines.
• Take travel insurance covering your equipment.

We are happy to discuss your needs and plan a route with suitable hotels, vehicles and pace; please contact us before booking so we can check details honestly.