Explore Turkmenistan on this 4 days private journey from Ashgabat to the Shavat border. Discover monumental architecture, visit ancient Merv, and witness the spectacular Darvaza Gas Crater in the Karakum Desert. Experience traditional yurt camping, meet legendary Akhal Teke horses, and explore the historic city of Kunya Urgench. Enjoy guided visits, desert landscapes and remarkable Silk Road heritage throughout this immersive Central Asian adventure.
Turkmenistan Tour with Darvaza Crater, Merv and Kunya Urgench
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Overview
Highlights
- Explore Ashgabat’s grand monuments and the impressive Ertogrul Gazy Mosque
- Discover UNESCO listed Merv and the architectural masterpiece of Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum
- Witness the burning Darvaza Gas Crater and camp under the desert stars
- Visit Kunya Urgench with Kutlug Timur Minaret and Turabek Hanum Mausoleum
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
Letter of Invitation
Professional Guide
Tour Package (LoI, Register fee, Permit fee)
Transportation
Covid Test 35 USD
Free for use Cameras on Monuments
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 and City Tour with Akhal Teke Horses
- Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport.
- Transfer to the hotel and check in for rest and refreshment.
- Visit the majestic Wedding Palace and the modern architecture of “Yyldyz” Hotel.
- Explore the Constitution Monument and the Arch of Neutrality, key symbols of the Turkmen nation.
- Walk through the Monument and Park of Independence, showcasing national heritage.
- Tour the impressive Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Ashgabat.
- Drive to a nearby horse farm to witness the legendary Akhal-Teke horses, with a chance to ride these elegant animals in traditional settings.
- Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Ashgabat.
Day 2 Ashgabat to Mary and UNESCO Merv Exploration
- Eat breakfast at the hotel.
- Check out and drive to Mary, passing through desert landscapes and small towns.
- Stop for lunch upon arrival in Mary.
- Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Merv, once one of the great cities of the Islamic world.
- Visit the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the architectural gem of the Seljuk Empire.
- Explore the ruins of Small and Large Gyz Gala, ancient fortresses once guarding the city.
- Discover the mausoleum of Muhammed ibn Zayd and various other remains, including Keshk fortresses.
- Drive back to Ashgabat in the evening and return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 3 Ashgabat to Darvaza Gas Crater and Desert Camping
- Eat breakfast at the hotel.
- Check out from the hotel and begin the drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater (275 km, approx. 4 hours).
- Pass through the Karakum Desert, one of Central Asia’s most expansive arid zones.
- Arrive at the burning Darvaza Gas Crater, a natural gas field that has been alight for over 50 years.
- Explore the surrounding desert and visit nearby water and mud craters.
- Settle into traditional Turkmen yurts or private tents for a night under the stars.
- Enjoy a barbecue dinner beside the flaming crater and witness the surreal glow lighting up the desert night.
Day 4 Darvaza to Kunya Urgench, Dashoguz and Shavat Border
- Eat a picnic-style breakfast beside the crater.
- Depart from Darvaza and drive north to the ancient city of Kunya Urgench (267 km, approx. 6 hours).
- Explore the mausoleums of Il Arslan and Sultan Tekesh, notable leaders of Khorezm.
- See the Academy of Horezm and the elegant Kutlug Timur Minaret, one of the tallest in Central Asia.
- Visit the beautiful Turabek Hanum Mausoleum, a masterpiece of Timurid architecture.
- Drive to Dashoguz and then proceed to the Shavat border (106 km, approx. 2 hours).
- Cross into Uzbekistan and conclude your Turkmenistan journey.
Explore other options
Ashgabat-Darvaza-Merv-Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
$900.00
3 Comments
5
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.