Samarkand - When to Visit

When to Samarkand

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Samarkand Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -6°C 5°C 16°C 27°C 39°C Rainfall (mm) 0 36 73 Jan Jan: 7.0°C high, -1.0°C low, 41mm rain Feb Feb: 9.0°C high, 0.0°C low, 53mm rain Mar Mar: 15.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 74mm rain Apr Apr: 21.0°C high, 9.0°C low, 64mm rain May May: 27.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 41mm rain Jun Jun: 32.0°C high, 18.0°C low, 8mm rain Jul Jul: 34.0°C high, 19.0°C low, 3mm rain Aug Aug: 33.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 3mm rain Sep Sep: 28.0°C high, 13.0°C low, 3mm rain Oct Oct: 22.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 15mm rain Nov Nov: 14.0°C high, 3.0°C low, 41mm rain Dec Dec: 9.0°C high, 0.0°C low, 38mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Samarkand experiences a continental semi-arid climate with distinct seasons and dramatic temperature variations throughout the year. The city enjoys hot, dry summers with temperatures reaching the mid-90s°F and minimal rainfall, while winters are cold with temperatures dropping to around 30°F and moderate precipitation. The climate follows a clear pattern with a wet season from February through May (receiving 2.1-2.9 inches of rainfall) and an extremely dry period from June through September (less than 0.3 inches monthly). Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather conditions with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, making these seasons ideal for exploring the city's magnificent Islamic architecture and historic sites along the ancient Silk Road.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
Not applicable - Samarkand is an inland desert city without beaches, but June through August offer the hottest weather for those seeking intense heat.
Cultural Exploration
April through May and September through October are ideal, offering pleasant temperatures (70-83°F highs) and minimal rainfall for comfortable sightseeing of historic monuments.
Adventure & Hiking
March through May and September through November provide the best conditions with moderate temperatures and manageable weather for outdoor activities and exploration.
Budget Travel
December through February offer the lowest tourist crowds and potentially better accommodation rates, though temperatures are cold with highs only reaching 45-49°F.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest month in Samarkand with chilly temperatures and moderate rainfall. Days are short and crisp, requiring warm clothing for outdoor exploration. Tourist crowds are at their lowest during this winter month.

45°F High
29°F Low
1.6 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

February remains cold but shows slight warming compared to January. This month receives the second-highest rainfall of the year, with occasional wet days. Tourist activity continues to be minimal during this winter period.

49°F High
31°F Low
2.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

March marks the beginning of spring with noticeably warmer temperatures and the highest rainfall of the year. The weather becomes more pleasant for sightseeing, though visitors should prepare for occasional rain showers. Tourist numbers begin to increase.

59°F High
40°F Low
2.9 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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April

April offers excellent weather with comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring Samarkand's historic sites. Rainfall remains significant but temperatures are ideal for walking tours. This marks the beginning of the peak tourist season.

70°F High
49°F Low
2.5 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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May

May provides warm, pleasant weather with reduced rainfall compared to earlier spring months. Temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Tourist crowds remain high during this popular travel month.

80°F High
57°F Low
1.6 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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June

June brings hot temperatures and marks the beginning of the extremely dry season with minimal rainfall. The weather is sunny and clear, perfect for photography, though the heat can be intense. Tourist activity remains strong.

90°F High
64°F Low
0.3 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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July

July is the hottest and driest month of the year with scorching temperatures and virtually no rainfall. Early morning and evening are the best times for outdoor activities. Despite the heat, tourist numbers remain high.

94°F High
67°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

August continues the hot, dry summer pattern with minimal rainfall and high temperatures. The intense heat requires careful planning of outdoor activities, with air-conditioned indoor attractions being popular during midday. Tourist crowds persist despite the challenging weather.

91°F High
64°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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September

September offers relief from summer's intense heat with more comfortable temperatures while maintaining the dry weather pattern. This is an excellent month for sightseeing with pleasant conditions and clear skies. Tourist numbers remain high.

83°F High
56°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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October

October provides ideal weather conditions with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. The pleasant climate makes it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and walking tours. This is considered one of the best months to visit Samarkand.

71°F High
46°F Low
0.6 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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November

November sees cooling temperatures and slightly increased rainfall as winter approaches. The weather remains generally pleasant for sightseeing, though warmer clothing becomes necessary. Tourist crowds begin to decrease.

57°F High
37°F Low
1.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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December

December brings cold temperatures and moderate rainfall as winter settles in. While sightseeing is still possible, warm clothing is essential for outdoor activities. Tourist numbers drop significantly during this winter month.

48°F High
31°F Low
1.5 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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Activities in Samarkand