Turkmenistan is a mosaic of impressions, and two days is just enough to get a taste. Start with the ruins at Kunya-Urgench, a city that survived the raids of Genghis Khan in the 13th century only to be just about permanently destroyed in the 14th century by Timur. Spend the night next to a fire in the desert next to the Darvaza Gas Crater, a collapsed natural gas pocket that has been continually burning for the past forty years. Whether you love the broad, empty desert, the ruins of history at Kunya-Urgench, or just taking a short tour to a new country, the Tour to Kunya-Urgench and Darvaza is sure to be a best tour for a number of people.
Tour itinerary:
In the afternoon drive from Khiva to Turkmenistan border point Shavat-Dashoguz (60 km, 1 h.). Go through border formalities on both checkpoints. Cross 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. Meet your Turkmenistan guide and drive to Darvaza gas crater located in the middle of Karakym desert (270 km, 4 h.). Set up the camp. Enjoy a view of the sunset with the delicious fire-cooked meal for dinner near the burning gas crater. Overnight in tents.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2 hours
Meals: dinner
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2 hours
Meals: dinner
After camp style breakfast, drive to Kunya-Urgench (UNESCO) (370 km, 5 h.), explore historical park with Kutlug Timur minaret, Mausoleum Tyurabek-Khanym, Mausoleum Tekesh, Mausoleum Il Arslan, Caravansaray gateway and etc. Lunch at local café. After lunch transfer to Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan border point Dashoguz-Shavat. Go through border formalities on both checkpoints. Cross 1.5 km neutral zone (transportation may not be available). Meet your driver and continue to Khiva (60 km, 1 h.). End of the tour service.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Meals: breakfast, lunch
- All transfers;
- Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- Visa support letter for Turkmenistan tourist visa;
- Utensils and necessary equipment for staying in tents (sleeping bags, sleeping mats, pillows, dining table, chairs);
- Camp style dinner and breakfast at Darvaza crater;
- Lunch in Kunya Urgench;
- Tour leader to accompany travellers for the whole period of the tour.
- Consular fees for Turkmenistan tourist visa;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Travel insurance.
Prices per person
Winter discount of 10% valid until the end of February 2024.
Prices are for 2023 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
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