Zarudny Sparrow Expedition in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
A focused six-day search for Zarudny Sparrow and other Karakum Desert specialties, traveling from Ashgabat and Repetek to Bukhara and Tashkent.
About this tour
Travel across Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan on a concise expedition built around one of Central Asia’s most localized birds: Zarudny Sparrow. After arrival in Ashgabat, the program combines agricultural and foothill birding with an internal flight and an overland journey toward Repetek Biosphere State Reserve in the Karakum Desert.
Two days around Repetek concentrate on sparsely vegetated desert, sand acacia and white saxaul. Alongside the main sparrow search, priorities include Turkestan Ground Jay, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Greater Sand Plover, Red-headed Bunting, Trumpeter Finch and several desert warblers and larks. All remain wild-bird possibilities rather than guaranteed sightings.
The route finishes by crossing into Uzbekistan, visiting historic Bukhara and taking a high-speed train to Tashkent. This is a specialist journey with several transport modes and border logistics, suitable for birders comfortable with focused searching and travel days. Current prices and final logistics for the 2027 and 2028 departures are confirmed after inquiry.
Birds you can spot
Curruca nana
target
Anarhynchus leschenaultii
target
Curruca mystacea
target
Pterocles alchata
target
Emberiza bruniceps
target
Bucanetes githagineus
target
Podoces panderi
target
Passer zarudnyi
target
Guides
Itinerary ▼
Travel to Ashgabat for the start of the expedition. Final flight advice and arrival arrangements are confirmed before booking.
Begin around agricultural areas and foothills near Ashgabat, looking for birds such as White-tailed Lapwing, Variable Wheatear and Finsch’s Wheatear. Continue by domestic flight and transfer toward the eastern part of Turkmenistan.
Use two days to explore desert habitat around Repetek by 4WD, concentrating on the Zarudny Sparrow search in suitable sand-acacia and saxaul areas. Supporting targets include Pander’s Ground-Jay, sandgrouse, desert larks, buntings, finches and warblers.
Daily routes respond to conditions and the most recent local knowledge.
Cross into Uzbekistan and continue to Bukhara. After time for a guided visit to the historic city, board the high-speed train to Tashkent for the final night.
Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for the homeward journey. Exact timing follows the confirmed international flight schedule.
Locations & map
- Ashgabat - Ahal Turkmenistan (Urban edge, agriculture and nearby dry foothills.)
- Repetek Biosphere State Reserve - Lebap Turkmenistan (Karakum Desert with dunes, sand acacia and white saxaul.)
- Bukhara - Bukhara Uzbekistan (Historic oasis city visited during the transfer to Tashkent.)
Availability & pricing
Price: Price on request
Included
- Transport described in the itinerary - Includes scheduled in-tour transport listed by the operator.
- Twin-share accommodation - Accommodation described in the itinerary.
- Meals - Meals during the land program.
- Permits and national park entrances - Required entrances in the planned program.
Not included
- International flights - Flights to the start and from the finish are not included.
- Visas and insurance - Travel documents and insurance are the traveler’s responsibility.
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses - Not included unless specifically confirmed.
Transport & stays
- Domestic flight, 4WD convoy, road transfer and hig
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
Are all listed birds guaranteed?
No. The itinerary identifies realistic priorities and possible highlights, but all birds are wild and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Can this journey be arranged privately?
Private departures may be available. Ask through BirdWatch.info with your dates, group size and birding priorities.