Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through Turkmenistan, a land of ancient history, futuristic architecture, and surreal desert landscapes. Begin in the marble-clad capital of Ashgabat, visiting grand monuments, national museums, and the world’s largest indoor Ferris wheel. Discover the UNESCO-listed ruins of Merv and Nisa, step back in time at Gokdepe Fortress, and marvel at the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater in the heart of the Karakum Desert. Unwind in the healing waters of Kow-Ata Underground Lake, explore remote mountain villages like Nohur, and witness the stunning natural beauty of Yangykala Canyon.
7-Day Tour of Turkmenistan Covering Ashgabat, Merv, Darvaza and Desert Adventures
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Overview
Highlights
- Explore the white-marble capital city of Ashgabat, including the National Museum, Monument of Neutrality, and the “Alem” Ferris Wheel
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Merv and Nisa, rich in ancient Silk Road history
- Witness the spectacular Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the “Door to Hell,” and camp overnight in traditional yurts
- Discover Gokdepe Fortress and its historic battle museum, along with the revered Gokdepe Mosque
- Swim in the warm, therapeutic waters of Kow-Ata Underground Lake and explore the largest bat colony in the CIS
- Visit the remote mountain village of Nohur, known for its mystic traditions, ram-horn cemeteries, and silk weaving
- Experience a traditional Akhal-Teke horse farm, home to Turkmenistan’s national horse breed
What's included / excluded
Camping Accommodation: traditional yurt camp and sleeping bags
Daily Water
Dinner and Breakfast at the Camp
Entry Tickets for Museums
Hotel Accommodation: Breakfast Included
Professional Guide
Tour Package (LoI, Register fee, Permit fee)
Transportation
Covid Test 35 USD
Free for use Cameras on Monuments
Letter of Invitation
Meals, services
Meals: Many meals and daily breakfasts included
Migration Tax: 12 USD and 4 USD Bank fee
Private Expenses, Gratuities
Visa fee 55 USD - 85 USD
Tour Plan
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Day 1 Arrival in Ashgabat – City Introduction Tour
Welcome to Turkmenistan. Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, meet your guide and proceed to hotel check-in.
Check in at the hotel.
Visit the “Alem” Cultural and Entertainment Center, home to the world’s largest indoor Ferris wheel.
Drive past the Constitution Monument and the Monument of Neutrality.
Explore the Carpet Museum, the world’s largest collection of handmade carpets.
Visit the Turkmenistan National Flagpole and the National Museum.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional Turkmen restaurant.
Visit Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque, the largest mosque in Central Asia.
Explore the ancient Parthian city of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stop at Seyit Jemal ad-Din Mosque and Memorial Complex.
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 2 Ashgabat – Merv – Ashgabat
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Drive eastward to Mary, the gateway to ancient Merv.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
Explore the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Merv.
Visit the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum.
Discover Gyz Gala (Large and Small).
Visit the Mausoleum of Muhammed ibn Zaid.
Explore the ruins of the Keshk Fortress.
Return to Ashgabat.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 3 Ashgabat – Darvaza Gas Crater
Have breakfast at the hotel.
Enjoy free time until noon.
Check out from the hotel and drive to Darvaza Gas Crater (275 km, approximately 4 hours).
Witness the famous flaming Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the “Door to Hell.”
Explore surrounding water and mud craters.
Experience the desert air and nomadic lifestyle.
Enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner under the stars.
Spend the night in a traditional yurt or private tent near the crater.
Overnight: Yurt or tent at Darvaza.
Day 4 Darvaza – Gokdepe Fortress – Ashgabat
Enjoy a picnic-style breakfast at the Gas Crater.
Drive to Gokdepe Fortress.
Have lunch at a local restaurant.
Visit Gökdepe Fortress, site of a historic battle with the Russian Empire.
Tour the Gökdepe Mosque and the adjacent Museum of History and Battle.
Visit a traditional Akhal-Teke horse farm, with the opportunity to ride the prized horses.
Return to Ashgabat and enjoy free time in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 5 Day Trip to Nohur Village and Kow-Ata Underground Lake – Nebitdag
Have breakfast at the hotel.
Check out from the hotel.
Drive to Kow-Ata Underground Lake, known for its warm therapeutic waters and mineral content.
Explore the bat colony, the largest in the CIS region.
Swim in the subterranean hot spring.
Drive to Soygi Dagy (Mountain of Love) near Nohur Village.
Visit Nohur Cemetery with its unique ram-horn tombstones.
Meet local artisans and silk weavers.
Have lunch in the village.
Continue to Nebitdag.
Check in at the hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Nebitdag.
Day 6 Nebitdag – Yangykala Canyon – Ashgabat
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Check out and depart for a day trip to Yangykala Canyon.
Marvel at the dramatic red and pink cliffs of this natural wonder.
Enjoy lunch en route.
Drive back to Ashgabat in the late afternoon.
Return to the hotel for dinner or rest.
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 7 Ashgabat – Local Markets – Departure
Have breakfast at the hotel.
Visit Gulistan Bazaar for souvenirs and a taste of local life.
Stop for shopping at Berkarar Shopping Center.
Optional visit to Arkaç Shopping Mall.
Enjoy a farewell dinner.
Return to the hotel to rest and pack.
Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your departure.
Safe Travels.
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3 Comments
4
Everything was seamless and well-organized. The guide was engaging, the activities were fun, and the food was delicious.
4
The guide was friendly, and the stops were well-planned and enjoyable. The scenery was breathtaking. Highly recommend!
4
The itinerary was perfect, with a great mix of adventure and relaxation. The guide’s enthusiasm made it even more enjoyable.