Pleasant warmth and clear skies make Uzbekistan in May a fantastic place to be. Temperatures range from 70 to 85°F (21 to 29°C), the country’s natural environment is at its most vibrant and the streets of pretty much every town and city are bustling with life. The mountain regions are great for trekking the miles of trails on offer, while cultural landmarks in Bukhara and Khiva shine under the bright sun. As summer approaches, the weather in Uzbekistan in May is mainly dry, with only the odd shower to dampen matters, making this a great month for those who want to experience the country before the intense heat of June and July sets in.
May is when Uzbekistan really hits its stride. Spring is still in the air, but summer is right around the corner. Warm days, clear skies, and long daylight hours make this one of the best months to explore the country.
May is one of the most rewarding times of year to visit Uzbekistan. The weather hits a sweet spot, with clear skies, warm days, and low humidity. In Tashkent and Samarkand, daytime highs hover between 77 and 86°F (25 and 30°C), making it perfect for sightseeing without the intensity of midsummer heat.
Nature is in full bloom, especially in rural areas and mountain valleys. Wildflowers, fresh greenery, and birdlife bring the countryside to life, with places like the Nuratau Mountains and Aydarkul Lake looking their best. In the cities, the weather makes it easy to explore on foot — whether you're wandering historic sites, ducking into tea houses, or browsing open-air markets.
May is also the start of festival season. Cultural events begin to pop up around the country, giving visitors a chance to connect with Uzbek traditions and hospitality. It’s one of the top reasons to visit Uzbekistan — a mix of great weather, natural beauty, and cultural energy, all in one month. Just be prepared for more tourists, especially in well-known locations, and book early where you can.
The weather in Uzbekistan in May feels like summer has arrived, with long days and comfortably warm temperatures across most of the country.
In Tashkent, daily highs reach 79°F (26°C), cooling to 57°F (14°C) at night. Samarkand and Bukhara are similar, with highs around 77°F (25°C) and lows of 55°F (13°C).
The Fergana Valley tends to be warmer, often reaching up to 82°F (28°C), while the desert areas, like Khiva, hit 75°F (24°C) during the day and drop to 50°F (10°C) at night.
In the mountains, hiking becomes more enjoyable as daytime temps climb to around 61°F (16°C), though nights can still dip to 41°F (5°C) so it pays to pack an extra layer or two.
Humidity stays low, and rainfall is rare, so you can count on mostly dry and sunny days. It’s the perfect time to take advantage of the good weather before the heat of June and July arrives.
Bukhara, Uzbekistan @ Shutterstock
With perfect weather and plenty to see, May draws a steady stream of visitors to Uzbekistan. Cities like Tashkent, Samarkand and Khiva are busier than in spring’s earlier months, though the crowds are still manageable, especially outside festival weekends.
As demand rises, prices for hotels, tours and domestic travel tend to go up. Flights and trains can sell out, particularly around public vacations and events. Reservation ahead is your best bet for securing both availability and value.
While May isn’t the cheapest month to visit, it offers excellent value for the quality of the experience. Think fewer weather-related disruptions, plenty of open-air events and lots of opportunities to explore comfortably.
May is one of the best months to get out and experience everything Uzbekistan has to offer, from culture and history to nature and local life.
Khiva’s walled Itchan Kala looks especially beautiful in the late spring sunshine. Wander through its narrow streets, climb the city walls and visit the Kalta Minor Minaret, all without the scorching summer heat.
With the trails now clear and the wildflowers in bloom, May is a great time to hike in the Nuratau range. Stay in a local guesthouse, meet mountain shepherds and enjoy peaceful views over valleys and villages.
The warming weather makes this a perfect time to relax by the water. You can swim, go fishing or simply enjoy a picnic on the lakeshore surrounded by steppe and desert scenery.
Gur e Amir Mausoleum, Samarkand, Uzbekistan @ Shutterstock
This sprawling market is at its liveliest in May. Stalls overflow with fresh fruit, vegetables and spices, and there’s no better place to pick up a bag of warm, freshly baked non or try a traditional Uzbek snack.
The Afrosiyob train is the quickest and most comfortable way to travel between Tashkent and Samarkand. Sit back and enjoy the shifting landscapes as you zipper toward one of the world’s most historic cities.
May is packed with seasonal events and cultural celebrations as spring fades into summer and locals and visitors alike enjoy the late spring warmth. Highlight of the month include:
