From Marble Cities to Wild Canyons — From 1055 USD per person
This 6-day journey reveals the many faces of Turkmenistan through a remarkable combination of monumental capital city landmarks, UNESCO heritage, desert adventure, sacred pilgrimage sites, and dramatic western landscapes. From the white-marble avenues of Ashgabat to the glowing Darvaza Gas Crater, from the ancient legacy of Merv to the spectacular cliffs of Yangykala Canyons, this itinerary is designed for travelers seeking both cultural depth and unforgettable scenery.
Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, where you will be met by your guide and transferred to the city. Begin your journey in Ashgabat, renowned for its monumental architecture, elegant urban layout, broad avenues, and striking white-marble buildings. 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 highlights of Ashgabat and its surroundings. Begin with a visit to the National Museum of Turkmenistan. Then continue to Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological monuments in Central Asia. The tour continues with a visit to the Akhal-Teke horse stables, where you will encounter one of the country’s greatest national symbols — known for their elegance, endurance, and distinctive metallic sheen. Next, visit the grand Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque in Gypjak. After lunch, depart Ashgabat and drive north through the Karakum Desert toward Darvaza. By evening, arrive at the world-famous Darvaza Gas Crater. Enjoy a barbecue dinner near the crater. Overnight in tents or 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 unique morning scenery around the crater. After breakfast at the camp, depart for the return drive 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. Overnight at a hotel in Ashgabat.
Distance of the day: approx. 280 km
After an early breakfast, depart for the historic region of Mary. Today’s highlight is the archaeological park of Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest and most important 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 Ashgabat and begin the journey west across Turkmenistan’s vast landscapes. By afternoon, arrive at the spectacular Yangykala Canyons — often described as the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” known for its dramatic cliffs and layered formations glowing in shades of red, pink, orange, and white. After time to explore the canyon viewpoints, continue toward Gozli Ata, one of the country’s most important sacred pilgrimage sites. Dinner and overnight stay in a yurt camp or simple local accommodation near Gozli Ata.
Distance of the day: approx. 560–600 km
After an early breakfast, begin the return journey toward Ashgabat. On the way, visit Nohur, a distinctive mountain village in the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains known for its preserved traditions, unique cultural identity, and beautiful natural surroundings. Later, continue to Kow Ata Underground Lake, hidden inside a cave and known for its warm, mineral-rich waters. Those who wish may enjoy a swim before the final drive back to Ashgabat. Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for departure. End of the tour.
Distance of the day: approx. 480–530 km