Cities, Deserts & Ancient Legends — From 905 USD per person
This 5-day journey offers an inspiring introduction to Turkmenistan’s most remarkable highlights, combining monumental architecture, sacred sites, dramatic desert scenery, and the legacy of the ancient Silk Road. From the white-marble grandeur of Ashgabat to the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater, the legendary ruins of Ancient Merv, and the traditional mountain village of Nohur, this tour presents a rich and well-balanced experience of the country’s history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, where you will be met by your guide and transferred to the city. Begin your discovery of Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, famous for its monumental scale, broad avenues, elegant urban design, and striking white-marble architecture. Your first visits include the Independence Monument and the Neutrality Monument. Continue to the Alem Cultural and Entertainment Center to see the famous indoor Ferris wheel. You will also visit the Memorial Complex. In the evening, enjoy a panoramic night tour of Ashgabat. Overnight at a hotel in Ashgabat.
Distance of the day: approx. 30–50 km
After breakfast, continue exploring the cultural and historical landmarks of Ashgabat and its surroundings. Start with a visit to the National Museum of Turkmenistan. Then continue to Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological monuments in Central Asia — once one of the capitals of the Parthian Empire. The tour continues with a visit to the Akhal-Teke horse stables — known for their grace, endurance, intelligence, and extraordinary metallic sheen. Next, visit the grand Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque in Gypjak. After lunch, depart Ashgabat and drive across the Karakum Desert toward Darvaza. By evening, arrive at the world-famous Darvaza Gas Crater, often called the “Door to Hell.” Enjoy a barbecue dinner by the crater. Overnight in tents or a yurt-style desert camp near Darvaza.
Distance of the day: approx. 300 km
Wake up to the peaceful atmosphere of the Karakum Desert and enjoy the morning view of the crater in daylight. After breakfast at the camp, return to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, spend some time at Lenin Park. Later, visit the elegant Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, notable for its Ottoman-inspired design. The remainder of the day may be spent at leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Ashgabat.
Distance of the day: approx. 280 km
After breakfast, depart for the historic region of Mary, one of the key gateways to the ancient Silk Road heritage of Turkmenistan. Today’s highlight is the archaeological park of Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ancient oasis cities of Central Asia. During the excursion, explore the Great Kyz Kala and Little Kyz Kala, the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, and the Mausoleum of Yusuf Hamadani. After the excursion, return to Ashgabat. Overnight at a hotel in Ashgabat.
Distance of the day: approx. 700–740 km
After breakfast, depart for the scenic mountain region southwest of Ashgabat. Drive into the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains to visit Nohur, a remote and distinctive mountain village known for its preserved traditions, unique cultural identity, and beautiful natural setting. Continue to Kow Ata Underground Lake, hidden inside a cave and known for its warm, mineral-rich water. Those who wish may enjoy a swim. After lunch, return to Ashgabat and transfer to the airport for departure. End of the tour.
Distance of the day: approx. 180–220 km