Three days of dust, deserted ships and hilltop fortresses: this overland circuit from Nukus takes you to Muynak’s ship cemetery, the Ustyurt Plateau and a chain of Khorezm fortresses. Expect long drives, short hikes, and nights in yurt camps under a wide desert sky.
Three days of dust, deserted ships and hilltop fortresses: this overland circuit from Nukus takes you to Muynak’s ship cemetery, the Ustyurt Plateau and a chain of Khorezm fortresses. Expect long drives, short hikes, and nights in yurt camps under a wide desert sky.
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Operated by Oxus Travel · Nukus, Karakalpakstan
The convoy rolls out before dawn across a hard, sun-baked plain; dust plumes rise and fall like low clouds as a sedan and a 4x4 thread toward the ghostly rim of the Aral Sea. By the first light rusted trawlers appear, half-buried on the former seabed at Muynak — a place where industry met climate and lost.
moderate.
3 days.
Moderate fitness for short on-site walks, some uneven terrain and long vehicle transfers
Yes — the itinerary is flexible and can start or end in Khiva, Urgench or Nukus; confirm pickup/drop-off when booking.
Expect roughly 1,200 km over three days with several multi-hour transfers between highlights; transportation time is included in the tour length.
Yes — nights are spent in simple yurt camps with basic facilities; options may include provided dinner and breakfast.
Minimum age listed is 15 for this tour; check with the operator about younger travelers and any additional requirements.
The Aral’s retreat resulted largely from mid-20th-century diversions of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya for cotton irrigation; nearby fortresses reflect Khorezm’s long role as a Silk Road frontier.
The region’s fragile desert and former seabed require low-impact travel—avoid disturbing salt flats and follow local guidance on waste and water use.
Oxus Travel operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Book with Oxus Travel
Book directly with Oxus Travel for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now