Traveling to Uzbekistan during the COVID Pandemic

Slow travelling across Uzbekistan by train - from the remote Aral Sea, through famous silk road cities, and ending in the lesser visited Fergana Valley.

How did you enter the country?

Air

Any difficulties with your vaccination card when entering the destination?

No, a PCR test was required on arrival regardless of vaccine status.

Was your COVID test result accepted?

Yes.

Did the local government ask for travel or health insurance when you arrived?

The local government didn't ask for health insurance when I arrived. Although the Tourism Minister website recommends insurance, the Uzbekistan government has a commitment to travelers that if COVID is caught in the country, hospital costs are covered by them with a $3,000 program.

If needed, were COVID tests easy to find and book at your destination?

Yes, I was able to find low-cost testing facilities in all major cities.

Did you have any difficulties with testing or receiving your results on time?

No, I received my results very quick.

Was this destination abnormally crowded or empty?

It was much quieter than normal, making it a perfect time to visit.

Did you have to show proof of vaccination on location? For example, when entering restaurants, shops, events, etc.?

No, due to the very low number of cases numbers in the country there are minimal restrictions.

Were you required to wear a mask inside restaurants, event spaces, or public transportation? If you were able to choose, did you feel comfortable wearing or not wearing a mask?

No, although some people were using masks, particularly on trains.

Did the destination adapt physical distancing in day-to-day situations?

Not really, due to the control of the situation there isn't a need currently.

Were there additional requirements to travel within the region?

Just to have a negative PCR COVID test on arrival. Some land borders to neighboring countries remain closed at this time.

Were most attractions open? Were you able to visit the ones you wanted to attend?

Yes, everything I wished to visit was open as normal.

Were there any surprising or unexpected COVID policies on your trip?

How relaxed the situation was, especially coming from Europe, it felt almost normal.