Ready to sketch & savour Uzbekistan? 

Do I need to know how to sketch?
Not at all. Complete beginners are welcome, and experienced sketchers/ artists will have plenty of freedom to work in their own way.

Will I have to sketch all the time?
No. Sketching is an invitation, not an obligation. Sometimes you may want to draw; sometimes you may simply want to wander, photograph, have tea or take everything in.

Do I need to bring lots of art materials?
No. We’ll provide a simple list of recommended materials before the journey. And we will provide a personal accordion Silk Route sketchbook for every participant. 

What fitness level is required for this trip?
While there will be a fair amount of walking through historic areas, markets and old cities, we pride ourselves on being inclusive and accommodating. Let us know if you have any specific physical or other limitations, and we will look into how we can support you.  

What kind of food will we eat?

Uzbek food is incredibly tourist-friendly with mild savory flavours, making it ideal for sensitive palates. Meals typically include: meat or vegetable dumplings (manti), breads baked in clay ovens, lightly-flavoured rice (pilaf), hand-pulled wheat noodles influenced by Chinese cuisine (lagman, similar to lamian), fresh salads, seasonal fruits and green tea.  Food is inherently prepared in line with halal practices. Alcohol is widely available due to the Soviet history. 

What is included and what is not?

The trip package includes:

• Hotel with breakfast

• Daily bite-sized demonstrations/ prompts with guided sketch sessions

• Selected workshops and meet-ups with Uzbek artists/ makers

• Cultural immersion local guide

• Return airport and train transfer

• Private ground transportation

• Economy train tickets for travel between cities

The trip package excludes:

• Your flights to and from Uzbekistan

• Entrance fees to attractions

• Lunches and dinners, unless explicitly mentioned

• Travel insurance (this is a requirement for all participants)

• Personal expenses

• Tips for guides and drivers

• Travel visas

When do I need to make payment? Is there a cancellation period?

To save your seat,  a deposit of 40% is required by Thursday, 31 December 2026. 

Full payment is required by Sunday 28 February 2027. Any cancellations before then will be fully refunded. 

Thereafter, refunds are not offered for cancellations due to commitments with the local operators.

Can I extend my stay in Uzbekistan?

Absolutely! There is so much to see and explore in the region, both within Uzbekistan and across the broader 'Stans. We encourage you to take the opportunity to extend your adventure before and/ or after the retreat. We will be happy to provide recommendations and guides for your additional days if you need.