This is the most detailed guide to Central Asia's most populous country and the heart of the historic Silk Road. Strikingly beautiful yet little understood, Uzbekistan finally has a guide to inspire independent travelling, with all the in-depth practical information required, highlighting epic landscapes through to awe-inspiring architecture. Practical details are entwined with cultural, literary, social, religious and historical curiosities to make an entertaining companion and guide. It includes up-to-date and personal reviews of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment venues across all budgets. Alongside historical detail and anecdotes, exceptional colour photography brings to life places, people and local traditions as they appear today. Comprehensive bird-watching and wildlife sections are provided by experienced twitcher and BBC journalist Ben Tavener and there is a thorough introduction to the Uzbek and Russian languages.

Tajikistan

by Sophie Ibbotson and Max Lovell-Hoare

Published 13 May 2013
Tajikistan is Central Asia's smallest and least understood country. Epic mountain landscapes, glacial lakes and the mighty Oxus River encircle ancient Buddhist sites, Silk Road trading posts, medieval shrines and planned Soviet cities. The guide includes tried and tested trekking routes in the Fann, Zerafshan and Pamir mountain ranges for various levels of experience. Comprehensive bird-watching and wildlife sections are provided by BBC journalist Ben Tavener. Rich historical detail and entertaining anecdotes are drawn from the historical archives of the Royal Society for Asian Affairs and with first-hand descriptions of everything from Soghdian ruins to playing the traditional sport of buz kashi or 'dead goat polo', Tajikistan's authors bring the country alive.

Sudan

by Sophie Ibbotson and Max Lovell-Hoare

Published 26 November 2012
. The only guide dedicated solely to the new Republic of the Sudan
. Explore entire pyramids and other ancient sites entirely free of tourist crowds
. Drink in views over the Sudanese plains from the granite Taka Mountains
. Dive the reef where Jacques Cousteau conducted his experiment in underwater living
. Experience Sudan's cultural diversity among the 50 tribes of the Nuba Mountains
. Read advice on where to stay/eat, travelling safely and cultural etiquette


As a staple of bleak news headlines, Sudan has been slow to make its abundant attractions known to the outside world. Few foreigners have heard of the Kingdom of Kush, walked among the isolated pyramids of Meroƫ or witnessed the whirling dervishes of Omdurman. Yet those who do make it here are invariably enchanted by its easy-going nature, fascinating history and the warm welcome they receive from the Sudanese people.

This, the only stand-alone guide to post-partition Sudan, leads you expertly from the labyrinthine souks of Khartoum to coral-bedecked wrecks off the Red Sea coast. Whether you're rushing through on the trans-Africa trail or whiling away weeks among rich archaeological sites, this fully revised third edition is your indispensible companion.

South Sudan

by Sophie Lovell-Hoare and Max Lovell-Hoare

Published 2 October 2013
Separated from the north in 2011, South Sudan is the world's newest country and has emerged from decades of inaccessibility as a vibrant and diverse destination. Nature lovers are drawn to the region to experience one of the world's largest wetlands, the many tropical forests and the second-largest wildlife migration on earth. The tribal peoples such as the Dinka, Bari and Zande preserve unique cultures thousands of years in the making.

Authors Sophie Ibbotson and Max Lovell-Hoare provide practical information on getting around this new country where the travelling is rugged but the rewards are immense. This stand-alone guide outlines tour operators, hotels, restaurants, suggested itineraries, and how you can give back to the community. The chapter on Sudanese culture provides in-depth coverage of its languages, people and culture. Divided into geographical regions with photographs and maps, South Sudan enables the intrepid traveller to explore the length and breadth of the country.