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Uzbekistan Is Having a Massive Travel Moment Right Now — Here's Why You Need to Go in 2026 (And How to Do It Right)


Listen up, wanderlusters: Central Asia's best-kept secret isn't a secret anymore. Uzbekistan just smashed tourism https://xtrailtour.com/en/ records in 2025, welcoming over 10 million international visitors in the first 11 months alone — that's a huge jump from pre-pandemic levels, with arrivals up as much as 73% compared to 2019 according to UN Tourism data. The country is gunning for 20 million tourists by 2030, and 2026 is shaping up to be the year everyone finally catches on.


Why the hype? Think jaw-dropping turquoise domes, ancient Silk Road cities that feel like stepping into a history book, epic bazaars overflowing with spices and silk, and a food scene that's equal parts hearty and heavenly. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to visit: visa-free for many nationalities (including Americans in recent years), high-speed trains zipping between highlights, and prices that make Europe feel downright extortionate.


If you're plotting your next big trip, here's the ultimate lowdown on why Uzbekistan should top your list — and how to nail it without the crowds (or the stress).