Discover Turkmenistan, a land where the past and present blend seamlessly, on a comprehensive three-day extension tour. This tour takes you from the ancient city of Merv, a crucial Silk Road oasis, to Ashgabat's record-breaking marble-clad skyline, introducing you to the diverse heritage and natural beauty of Central Asia. Stand at the edge of the Darvaza Gas Crater, the mesmerizing "Gates of Hell," under a canopy of stars, and explore the UNESCO heritage site of Old Nissa.
Tour itinerary:
Early breakfast. Depart at 06:30 for the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan border point, Farap-Alat (100 km, 1 h 30 min). After completing the border formalities at both checkpoints, cross the 1.5 km neutral zone (transportation may not be available). Upon arrival at the customs and passport control on both sides, kindly proceed to the exit of the border control area. At that point, our guide/driver will be waiting for you with the sign with your name. Continue to Merv (300 km, 5 h 30 min), an ancient city that was a major center of international trade and crafts on the Silk Road. Merv is also home to a historical park for you to discover, with sights including: the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Major and Minor Kyz-Kala, Erk-Kala, Gyaur-Kala, Keshk Fortress, and others. Lunch at a local restaurant. Transfer to Mary Airport (40 km, 30 min) to take the evening flight to Ashgabat at 18:10. Upon arrival in Ashgabat at 18:50, transfer to the hotel for overnight.
Breakfast, followed by a sightseeing tour of Ashgabat. Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, has recently been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as having more white marble buildings than any other city in the world. During the city tour, explore the archaeological site of Old Nissa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Spiritual Mosque, one of the biggest mosques in Central Asia. Visit the National Museum of History, the Monument of Neutrality, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the recently-built Independence Park. The sightseeing tour will take about 6 hours and the afternoon will feature a drive through the Karakum Desert to the famous Darvaza Gas Crater (280 km, 4 h). After arriving at the crater, camp will be set up and you’ll enjoy a delicious, fire-cooked dinner near the “Gates of Hell”. Overnight in tents.
Note: At Darvaza camp you will be provided with sleeping bags, pillows, and 1- or 2-person tents. There is also an option to share a yurt with 3-5 other group members. In both cases, toilets and basic washing facilities are outside.
Note: At Darvaza camp you will be provided with sleeping bags, pillows, and 1- or 2-person tents. There is also an option to share a yurt with 3-5 other group members. In both cases, toilets and basic washing facilities are outside.
Camp-style breakfast. Drive back through the Karakum Desert to the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan border point, Dashoguz-Shavat (270 km, 4 h). Following border formalities at both checkpoints and crossing the 1.5 km neutral zone (transportation may not be available), your Uzbek driver will meet you to begin the trip to Khiva (60 km, 1 h). Upon arrival, check in to the hotel. Free time.
- All transfers;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- Accommodation based on double trekking tent or shared yurts (4 pax in each yurt, incl. sleeping mat, sleeping bag, pillow and toilet), including breakfast and BBQ dinner (1 night);
- English speaking tour leader in Turkmenistan;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- Economy class ticket for flight Ashgabat-Mary;
- Visa support for Turkmenistan tourist visas.
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- Consular fees for Turkmenistan tourist visas;
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- Migration card paid upon arrival on the border 14 USD;
- A tax of 2 USD per night, paid to the hotel upon check out;
- Travel insurance;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated.
Prices per person
Prices are for 2024 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
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