The Khiva – Kyzyl Kala – Toprak Kala – Akchakul Lake – Ayaz Kala – Khiva route is one of the most fascinating day trips in Uzbekistan, offering travelers a unique combination of ancient history, breathtaking desert landscapes, and authentic local life. Starting from the old town of Khiva, the journey leads through the legendary Khorezm fortresses, where ancient civilizations once thrived. The first stop, Kyzyl Kala, reveals the power of early defensive architecture, followed by Toprak Kala, the royal capital of Khorezm during the Kushan Empire. After exploring centuries-old mud-brick walls, visitors can relax by the shimmering Akchakul Lake, surrounded by yurts and the peaceful silence of the desert. The highlight of the route is Ayaz Kala, a stunning complex of fortresses overlooking endless sand dunes and the Kyzylkum horizon. This Khiva day trip is perfect for history lovers, photographers, and adventurers seeking to discover the timeless spirit of ancient Khorezm and the desert beauty of Uzbekistan.
Daytrip Duration: 6-7 hours
Sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Driving time: 3-4 hours
Driving Distance: 225 km
Included: Hands-Free Brochures, a good drivers with new Cars with AC, pick up and drop off at your location and Mineral water (0.5l. per person)
Not Included: Entrance tickets, meals, camel riding, Yurt Camp stay & etc
A Sedan (1-3 people) - $44
An SUV (1-4 people) - $74
A Minivan (1-6 people) - $99
A Minibus (1-10 people) - $105
A Minibus (1-13 people) - $115
A Bus (1-45 people) - $220
Your private day trip from Khiva begins with a comfortable pickup from Urgench Airport, the Khiva or Urgench train station, or directly from your hotel. You can start the adventure at any time, though it’s best to depart in the morning or early afternoon to make the most of this unforgettable half-day tour through the desert fortresses of ancient Khorezm.
The first destination is Kyzyl Kala, an impressive mud-brick fortress built between the 1st and 4th centuries CE. Once used either as a military barracks or a fortified manor house, Kyzyl Kala reveals the strategic importance of this region before the Mongol invasions. From here, a short 15-minute drive takes you to the grand Toprak Kala, the former royal residence of the Khorezm kings during the Kushan period. Its massive walls and remains of royal chambers reflect the ancient civilization’s power and sophistication.
After exploring Toprak Kala, your journey continues toward the scenic Akchakul Lake, where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch, local cuisine, and even a swim in the natural waters of this desert oasis. The nearby yurt camps and small cafés offer traditional Uzbek hospitality in a peaceful setting.
Finally, visit the crown jewel of the tour – Ayaz Kala, a complex of three ancient fortresses dramatically rising from the Kyzylkum Desert. Dating back to the 7th–8th centuries CE, Ayaz Kala served as a defense post against nomadic raids and offers one of the most breathtaking views in all of Uzbekistan.
At the end of the trip, you’ll return to Khiva or Urgench, with memories of timeless fortresses, golden sands, and the living history of ancient Khorezm.
Once you decide to use our services, please confirm and provide the following details in order to make a reservation:
1. Please confirm the name of the transfer, tour, or day-trip (as written on our website);
2. Please confirm the date of the transfer, tour, or day trip
3. Please confirm the type of transport you want to book (sedan, SUV, minivan, or minibus).
4. Please confirm the price of the transfer, tour, or day-trip you want to reserve.
5. Please confirm the number of people (and luggage if available) in your group.
6. Full names of all group members, including information about citizenship, passport, or ID card numbers.
7. Please confirm pick-up & and the starting place of your transfer, tour, or day trip (please state the name of your hotel).
8. Please confirm pick-up and the starting time of your transfer, tour, or day trip (you can see the recommended starting time on our website).
9. Please confirm the drop-off / ending place of your transfer, tour, or day trip.
10. Please provide your contact information: Email, Mobile Phone, or WhatsApp Numbers.
- That is all we need to know from your side in advance to make a reservation and organize the requested services.
- We do not need prepayment to make a reservation or organize the requested services. You will make a full payment directly to our drivers (guides) at the end of each transfer, day trip or tours.
- In order to cancel reserved services without being charged (%20 of the tour), please contact us at least 3 days in advance the tour starts.
- One day before each trip, tour, and transfer, we will send you a reminder email or Whatsapp message with all the details and pictures of your driver, car, and guides.
Please feel free to ask if you have any questions or special requests.