Yurt Camp Experience: Sleeping Under the Stars in the Uzbek Desert

Imagine falling asleep under a blanket of stars in a traditional yurt, surrounded by the silence of the Kyzylkum Desert. This is one of Uzbekistan's most unforgettable experiences – a night at a desert yurt camp near Aydarkul Lake.

What is a Yurt?

A yurt (called "uy" in Uzbek) is a portable, circular dwelling covered with felt, traditionally used by nomadic peoples of Central Asia for thousands of years. Despite looking simple from outside, the interior is surprisingly comfortable and beautifully decorated.

Features of a traditional yurt:

• Circular shape with domed roof
• Wooden frame covered with felt
• Skylight ("tunduk") at the top
• Colorful carpets and textiles inside
• Natural temperature regulation

Where to Experience Yurt Camps

Aydarkul Lake Camps

The most popular yurt camps are located near Aydarkul Lake – a massive artificial lake created in the 1960s, now home to diverse birdlife and surrounded by desert dunes.

Location: About 3 hours from Samarkand, near the village of Yangikadamzhan.

What to Expect

• Comfortable yurts – Beds with warm blankets, carpeted floors
• Shared facilities – Simple but clean bathrooms
• Traditional meals – Plov, shashlik, fresh bread cooked over fire
• Campfire evenings – Stories, tea, and stargazing
• Camel rides – Explore the dunes at sunset

A Typical Day at Yurt Camp

Afternoon: Arrival and Desert Activities

Arrive at camp in the afternoon. After settling into your yurt, options include:

• Camel ride through the dunes
• Swimming in Aydarkul Lake (seasonal)
• Hiking to viewpoints
• Bird watching at the lake

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

Watch the sunset paint the desert orange and gold. Then gather around the campfire for a traditional dinner under the stars. The plov cooked over open fire tastes especially delicious!

Night: Stargazing

With zero light pollution, the night sky is spectacular. The Milky Way stretches overhead, and shooting stars are common. Many guests say this is the highlight of their entire Uzbekistan trip.

Morning: Sunrise and Breakfast

Wake early to catch the sunrise over the desert – an unforgettable sight. Enjoy traditional breakfast of fresh bread, eggs, jam, and endless tea before heading out.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April-May): Comfortable temperatures, green desert
• Autumn (September-October): Perfect weather, warm days, cool nights
• Winter (December-February): Cold nights but clear skies, fewer visitors
• Avoid: Summer months (June-August) – too hot!

What to Bring

• Warm layers – Desert nights are cold, even in spring/autumn
• Sunglasses and sunscreen – Bright desert sun
• Camera – You'll want to capture everything!
• Flashlight/headlamp – Essential for nighttime
• Toiletries – Basic supplies only at camp
• Good attitude – Embrace the adventure!

Combined with Nearby Attractions

A yurt camp stay pairs perfectly with:

• Nuratau Mountains – Hiking and homestays
• Ancient Fortresses – Ayaz-Kala and Toprak-Kala ruins
• Silk Road History – Ancient caravanserai routes

"Sleeping in a yurt, listening to the desert silence, watching a million stars – this is the real Uzbekistan. Not just monuments, but life itself." - Guest Review

Is It Right for You?

Perfect for:

• Adventure seekers
• Photography enthusiasts
• Star gazers
• Couples seeking unique experiences
• Anyone wanting to escape modern life

Consider carefully if:

• You need luxury accommodation
• You can't handle basic facilities
• You're traveling with very young children