The best time to travel in Uzbekistan
If there's one thing to bear in mind about Uzbekistan's climate, it's the extreme temperature variations! Best avoid winter and high summer; freezing and boiling hot respectively, with temperatures dropping to -60°C at the coldest time of year and soaring to 40°C during the summertime.
At a glance
The climate in Uzbekistan varies depending on whether you're in a desert or mountainous region. What's more seasonal temperature variations are very wide. Winters are harsh and summertime baking. It's best, therefore, to visit Uzbekistan during spring or fall. If you're heading to the plains, April to June and September to November are clement months. However, during these very same months, frequent and heavy rainfall hits the mountainous regions. Avoid March, the rainiest month of the year.
The North
Uzbekistan's cold winters are particularly harsh in Karakalpakstan, to the north of the country. Temperatures can fall to -40C! As it bears the brunt of the Siberian winds, winter is extreme and mid-season relatively cold. Aim to go there at other times of year, avoiding July (too hot) and March (too wet). Whilst you're there, take a trip to Khiva, a beautiful oasis town in the Karakum Desert.
Sporting vacations
If you're planning to go rafting and kayaking around Tashkent, September and October are pleasant times of the year. At four hours from the town, hiking fans will love exploring the Angren Valley canyon. And you can always tour the region Uzbek-style - by horse or camel! If you want to explore the lower attitudes and avoid the cold, then go between March and May. It's also a good period for birdwatching.
The East
Visit the east of Uzbekistan in April, May and September to avoid the hottest time of year, as well as the wettest. Avoid March at all costs - it rains cats and dogs. Take the time to tour Andijan, the administrative capital of the south, alongside Osh. Situated in the Ferghana Valley in Kyrgyzstan, the latter is easily reached from Andijan.
The Center
It can be extremely hot in summer and freezing cold in winter in Tashkent and surrounding areas. So best to visit this part of Uzbekistan in April/May and September/October. As with the rest of the country, remember March is very rainy. Delve into the capital city's depths and explore the architectural wonders in 'Stone City'.
The south
This region is the hottest in the country In Termez, temperatures can soar as high as 60°C. On the Uzbek/Afghan border, this southern town is surrounded by sub-tropical mountains. Termez is the hottest town in the whole country Best months to go are April/May and September/October to avoid the scorching summer months...and its cold winter! Avoid March when the rainfall is heavy.
Samarkand and Bukhara
If you're heading to these areas, then April to June and August/September are the best months. It's unbearably hot in July and too cold in winter. Globally known for its Timurid architecture, the Samarkand province is a great place to explore. Bukhara, the ancient city at the end of the Silk Road, is well preserved and you'll find a wide selection of great places to stay. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town center is a must-see ! Avoid going in March, the rainiest month of the year.
