3-day tour to the Chimgan Mountains This active weekend hike from Tashkent features waterfalls, canyons, and mountain panoramas. Suitable even for beginners, it allows you to fully recharge in nature without any complicated preparation.
Tour itinerary
Tawaksay: Waterfalls and Canyons
Depart Tashkent at 8:00 AM and travel to the starting point of the route in the Tavaksay Gorge. The hiking portion of the hike begins by 9:00 AM. The route follows the mountainous Tavaksay River and passes through canyons, rocky outcrops, and a series of waterfalls of varying heights.
During the hike, the group will ford the river several times, so extra shoes and socks are recommended. During warmer months, you can take a dip in one of the waterfalls. Along the way, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the gorge and mountain slopes, and the route itself allows you to gradually ease into a hiking rhythm without experiencing sudden exertion.
A picnic is held at the top of the canyon, where the Tavaksay River plunges over 40 meters. This is one of the most impressive spots on the route and a great spot for rest and photographs. After the picnic, the return journey begins along the left bank of the river, passing through hills and mountain slopes with virtually no fords.
In the evening, the group returns to the transport and travels to the Green Canyon Hotel, where they check in and relax. Dinner is reserved in advance.
- Route type: circular;
- Length of the walking section: ~15 km;
- Altitude gain and loss: 400–450 m;
- Trail type: dirt, rocky areas.
Paltau Waterfall and birch grove
The morning begins with breakfast at the hotel. At 9:00 AM, we depart for the Aurakhmat border post. Please bring your passports—this is where the group will register and obtain permits to visit the Ugam-Chatkal National Park. After the formalities, the hiking portion of the route begins.
The trail starts from the outpost and gradually climbs along a dirt road. Along the way, panoramic views of the Charvak Reservoir, the Chatkal River, Mount Paltau, and the surrounding valleys open up. As you ascend, the landscapes become more expansive, and the route becomes more picturesque.
After about two hours, the group reaches the Paltau waterfall, which rises approximately 38 meters. The waterfall is framed by a C-shaped rock wall, creating the effect of a natural well. Time is provided here to rest, take photos, and enjoy the view. A short but steep climb follows, after which the route emerges onto a dirt road and leads into a birch grove.
A picnic and a long rest are arranged in the grove. Afterwards, the return journey to the starting point begins, completing the circular route. In the afternoon, return to the Green Canyon Hotel, dinner, and rest.
- Route type: circular;
- Length of the walking section: 14–15 km;
- Altitude gain and loss: 450–500 m;
- Trail type: dirt.
Aksakata Canyon (Aksakata/Aksagata)
After breakfast at the hotel, depart at 9:00 AM for the Aksakata Canyon, located approximately 40 km from Tashkent. The route begins near the village of Shuldak and follows the left orographic bank of the Aksakatasay River.
The hiking portion of the tour begins with a gentle climb up a sloping marble slab. As you progress, views of the canyon and surrounding rock formations open up. The route boasts geological diversity: along the way, you'll encounter fossilized shells of various sizes, testifying to the ancient marine past of these areas. The climb leads to the foot of the extinct volcano Surenata, making the route particularly interesting for geology and nature enthusiasts.
Lunch is served in a green meadow next to a fallen, centuries-old poplar—a cozy place to rest before the return journey. Along the way, you can observe a rich fauna and birdlife: blue-billed ducks, rock doves, starlings, and thrushes nest in rock niches, and cows and horses often graze in the pastures. In spring, the route is especially picturesque thanks to the blooming tamarisk and wild almond trees.
In the afternoon, return to your vehicle and travel back to Tashkent. Estimated arrival in the city is around 6:00 PM.
- Route length: up to 15 km;
- Elevation gain: up to 500 m;
- Format: walking, circular;
- Difficulty level: suitable for beginners.
Important to know
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route is specifically designed to be accessible to those without hiking experience. The pace is relaxed, with no technically challenging sections or extreme climbs.
Do you need any special physical training?
No special training is required. All you need is reasonable physical fitness and the willingness to walk 14–15 km per day, with breaks.
Are there any dangerous sections on the route?
The routes follow established trails. There are river crossings on the first day, but they are shallow and safe if you follow the guide's instructions.
What to do if the weather changes?
The route is adapted to weather conditions. In case of rain or worsening weather, the guide may adjust the pace or individual sections of the route.
Do you need to carry everything with you?
No, this is not a self-guided trek. Accommodation is at a hotel, personal belongings remain in the rooms, and only a daypack is allowed on the trek.
How to book a tour?
- Leave a request on the website or contact us in any convenient way;
- Specify the date and format of the tour (individual or group);
- Receive confirmation and preparation recommendations;
- Arrive at the appointed time and we will arrange the rest!
What to take with you on a hike (equipment list)?
The hike doesn't require complex or specialized gear, but the right equipment will make the route comfortable and safe. Below is a recommended packing list.
Mandatory equipment
- Comfortable trekking backpack (20–30 l);
- Trekking shoes with good soles;
- Spare shoes and socks;
- Headwear (cap, Panama);
- Windproof jacket or light membrane;
- Comfortable clothes according to the weather (quick-drying).
Recommended
- Trekking poles (optional);
- Swimsuit/swimming trunks and a light towel (for swimming in the waterfalls);
- Sunscreen and glasses;
- Small first aid kit (personal medications, plasters);
- Water bottle or hydration pack;
- Light snack for the route;
- Documents and small items;
- Passport;
- Phone and power bank;
- Camera (optional).
It's important to remember that this isn't a self-guided hike—overnight stays are at a hotel, so you don't need to carry anything heavy or unnecessary with you.
What languages are the hikes conducted in?
Guides conduct hikes and provide accompaniment in the following languages: Russian and English. The language of accompaniment must be specified in advance when booking the tour.
Tour conditions
Tour starting point
Tashkent
Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Included in the price
- Accommodation in 4-star hotels;
- Transport services along the route;
- Obtaining an invitation to enter the country;
- Meals at the accommodation base (breakfasts);
- Meals during the hike;
- Services of a professional guide;
- Entrance tickets to all scheduled sites.
Paid separately
- Rental of special equipment or gear;
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional drinks, etc.);
- Dinners (unless otherwise stated).
Additional information
- Prepayment 50%
- There is an option to spend the night in tents. When staying in tents, meals are included throughout the tour, as well as the rental of tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
Route characteristics
A three-day tour to the Chimgan Mountains in 2026 The route is designed to be accessible to beginners, yet rich and varied in terrain. Routes run through canyons, mountain trails, and along rivers, avoiding extreme sections and technical mountaineering.
Basic route parameters
- Tour duration: 3 days;
- Total length of hiking routes: up to 44–45 km;
- Average daily distance: 14–15 km;
- Altitude gain and loss: up to 500 m per day;
- Route type: circular;
- Trail type: dirt, rocky areas, fords (Day 1).
This tour is perfect for those who want to try a real hiking experience without going far from Tashkent and without the rigors of a challenging hike.