Amazing Turkmenistan

Price: 1,340$

Duration:8

Complexity:

Route

Description

This tour takes you through Turkmenistan’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique culture.
From the ancient ruins of Nissa and Merv to the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater and the colorful Yangikala Canyons.
You will explore UNESCO heritage sites, vibrant bazaars, and remote mountain villages while experiencing authentic Turkmen hospitality.

Tour program

Open All Day

day 1

Ashgabat – City Tour & Nissa Fortress

Transfer to the hotel.
Morning drive to visit Nissa fortress – the Sanctuary of Parthian Kings. UNESCO declared the fortress a World Heritage Site in 2007. Nissa is described as one of the first capitals of the Parthians. It was founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211BC) and is reputedly the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings. However, it has neither been established that the fortress at Nissa was a royal residence nor a mausoleum.
Afternoon you will have an Ashgabat city tour. In 2013 the Guinness Book of Records named Ashgabat a “white marbled city”. Vist the Wedding Palace, the modern “Yildyz” Hotel, the Ferries Wheel, the Constitution Monument, the Arch of Neutrality, the Monument and Park of Independence, Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, Ashgabat Olympic Stadium, the Earthquake and Victims of WWII Monuments. Overnight in Ashgabat.

day 2

Ashgabat – Mary – Merv – Ashgabat

Depart from Ashgabat and drive to Mary (360 km), stopping en route at the ruins of Seyitjemalledin Mosque in Anau, a 15th-century architectural site with historical significance. Continue to Abiwerd, an ancient Silk Road trading town, before reaching Merv, one of the most influential Islamic capitals, known as the “Queen of the World.” Explore its key landmarks, including Greater and Lesser Kyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, and the Hoja Yusup Hamadani Complex. After an insightful day, return to Ashgabat for an overnight stay.

day 3

Ashgabat – Darvaza

Start the day with a visit to Altyn Asyr Oriental Bazaar or Gulistan Bazaar, where you can explore vibrant markets filled with carpets, jewelry, spices, and traditional Turkmen goods. In the afternoon, embark on a 276 km drive to Darvaza, crossing the Karakum Desert with a stop at the small village of Yerbent. Arrive at the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell,” a massive burning pit that has been aflame since 1971.
Enjoy the mesmerizing night view of the crater with a BBQ dinner before camping overnight under the stars.

day 4

Darvaza – Dashoguz

Picnic-style breakfast. Morning drive to Dashoguz (296km). Transfer to hotel.
In the afternoon, you will participate in a pottery-making master class where you will learn the basics of this ancient art form from a master potter. The class will begin with a brief introduction to the different types of clay, as well as the tools and techniques used in pottery making. You will then learn how to prepare and center the clay on the pottery wheel. Once the clay is centered, you will have the opportunity to start shaping your pots and bowls. During your pottery session, you can explore the house museum of the great artist, which features hundreds of art pieces, including not only pottery but also paintings, carpets, and sculptures.
Next, you will see downtown Dashoguz city before being transferred to the hotel for an overnight stay.

day 5

Dashoguz – Koneurgench – Dashoguz – Ashgabat

After breakfast drive to Kunya Urgench. Sightseeing tour in Kunya Urgench: visit Portal of Caravansaray, Mamun Minaret, II Arslan Mausoleum, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, Academy of Horezm, Kutlug Timur Minaret, Turabek Hanum Mausoleum. After sightseeing, drive to Dashoguz for an evening flight to Ashgabat.
Overnight at hotel.

day 6

Ashgabat – Turkmenbashi – Yangikala - Balkanabat

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the Ashgabat International Airport for a flight to Turkmenbashi. Drive to Yangikala Canyon (180km). Visit to pilgrimage sight Gozli-Ata on the way to drive to Yangykala Canyons, one of the scenic natural objects of Turkmenistan. The word expression “Yangy kala” translates from Turkmen as “fire fortress”. Indeed, the sheer cliffs of white, yellow, ocher, purple, and red colors, fancily carved by winds and rains, are very similar to the stone castles from a fantasy. Explore the Canyons. After exploration, drive to Balkanabat. Overnight at hotel.

day 7

Balkanabat – Nohur – Ashgabat

After breakfast, drive 315 km to Nokhur, a remote mountain village in the Kopet Dag Range, known for its distinct culture and unique traditions. Explore the legendary wish tree and the isolated cemetery, where graves are marked with goat horns. Later, visit a horse stable to see the world-famous Akhalteke horses, a symbol of Turkmen heritage. Learn about their 5000-year history and their significance in Turkmen culture.
Return to Ashgabat, check-in at the hotel, and rest before departure.

day 8

Departure

Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport. Departure.

Tour conditions

What's included

  • Letter of invitation
  • Registration in Ashgabat city
  • Accommodation in DBL/TWIN rooms – 7 nights
  • Yurt Camp – 1 night
  • Transportation throughout the tour
  • Flight ticket: Dashoguz – Ashgabat, Ashgabat – Turkmenbashi
  • Escort English-speaking guide service
  • Entrance tickets to Nissa fortress, KunyaUrgench, and Merv sites, Horse farm, pottery master-class
  • 1,5 L water per person per day
  • Travel Tax: 2 USD per person per night

What's excluded

  • International flights
  • Cost of Turkmen visa & border fees (70 – 100 USD)
  • Payment for photo and video
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Medical insurance
  • Meals: lunch and dinners
  • Services not shown in the program

Route

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Tour Dates:

Seasonality:
Summer

Group:

6 pax

Complexity:

2 out of 5

Price from: 1,340$

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