Turkmenistan
“Nowruz” Festival & Aboriginal Canines of the Karakum Desert
March 22 - March 31, 2025
Tour Introduction:
The Turkmen Shepherd, often referred to as the Alabai or the Central Asian Shepherd, is considered one of the oldest and purest dog breeds in the world. Numerous Turkmen nomadic tribes have been breeding these dogs for centuries in the Karakum Desert for a variety of uses, including protecting property and livestock. On the territory of modern Turkmenistan, only one breed has been preserved in its original form: the Turkmen Alabai. Its appearance has not changed for five thousand years. Embark with us on a journey of discovery and adventure to celebrate Nowruz Festival, the Persian New Year, in the enchanting village of Yayla nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Akhal Region. This ancient festival, marking the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature, invites us to partake in a vibrant tapestry of traditions dating back thousands of years. Amidst lush greenery and azure skies, locals and visitors alike gather to revel in the joyous energy of Nowruz, accompanied by the infectious rhythm of traditional music and the tantalizing aroma of Turkmen cuisine.
As we immerse ourselves in this cultural oasis, during this journey we'll also explore the rich heritage of the Turkmen Shepherd, revered as one of the oldest and purest dog breeds in the world. From the remote parts of the Karakum Desert to traditional dog kennels in Ashgabat and surrounding villages, we'll witness firsthand the proud traditions of breeding and training that have shaped these resilient desert dogs. Interacting with skilled shepherds, knowledgeable breeders and experts, we'll gain deeper insights into the enduring bond between man and dog, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the cultural significance of the Turkmen Shepherd and its integral role in Turkmenistan's heritage. This journey is not just limited to the adventure; it's also a cultural and educational experience that will leave you with a profound appreciation for these incredible canines and the culture that has cherished them for millennia.
Tour Itinerary:
Land Tour Price Only: (International Airfare, Taxes & Fuel surcharges are not included)
7-10 Travelers: USD 5,320 Per Person
Based on double room occupancy
Single Room Supplement: USD 470 Per Person (For all nights of the tour if you wish to stay in a single room).
Booking Details: An early booking discount of USD 250 is available for participants who sign up for the trip by September 1, 2024. To reserve your spot on this program, an initial deposit of USD 750 per person and a signed reservation form are required. A minimum of 7 participants is necessary to run the tour, with a maximum capacity of 10 participants. The final balance for the trip is due 60 days prior to departure and must be paid in full. If the balance is not paid in full by the due date, your reservation will be treated as a default cancellation and will be subject to a cancellation charge of all payments and deposits made to date. Tour booking is subject to the booking terms and conditions outlined in the reservation form. Please read the terms and conditions carefully, and feel free to contact us with any questions.
Tour Fitness Level
Moderate: Fits all age groups with good health, some fitness level, and a sense of adventure. There will be some long walking days and a bit of standing while touring. Access to some of the sites and attractions will require walking on uneven terrain or steep staircases. Few elevations, a pleasant but busy schedule, and several long overland drives during the tour. Feel free to discuss the details of the trip with us.
Lodging Level
Comfortable (3/4-stars): Lodges and hotels that provide a decent size room & an ensuite bathroom. A limited range of enhanced services, some of the onsite amenities, and a level of service that is acceptable by international standards.
Guest Houses/Yurts (1/2-stars): To have access to scenic landscapes & remote villages, simple shared guesthouses or yurt camps with shared bathroom facilities will be required during the tour.
Visa & Passport
International passports require a Turkmenistan visa. Letter of invitation will be obtained. Further details related to the visa application process will be sent out sixty (60) days before the trip. Ensuring that correct & valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the last day of the trip & include empty pages for visas.
Tour Includes:
One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Six (6) nights of accommodation at 4* hotels and three (3) nights overnight in Tents/Yurts as per itinerary.
Domestic flight from Mary to Ashganat.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days on March 22 and March 30.
Camping gear for the nights in desert (tent, mat and sleeping bag).
4x4 vehicles as per itinerary.
Services of UF Tour Manager and local English-speaking guides throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites in the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Letter of invitation for Turkmenistan visa.
Tour Does Not Include:
International air to/from Ashgabat.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Consular visa fees for Turkmenistan.
Personnel expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, mineral waters, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, &, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodations, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling fees at international airports.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
PCR Test on arrival (37 USD per person)
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Useful Details to Know and Tour Map:
This off-road adventure requires long driving distances overland, with both paved and off-road conditions through the Karakum Desert. Air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles will provide comfort throughout the journey. For the comfort of the travelers, air-conditioned transportation will be provided throughout the trip. We will be making several restroom stops, stretching our legs, and enjoying the scenic views on the way. During the sightseeing days, travelers must be able to walk a minimum of two to three miles to keep up with fellow travelers. Walking to and from sites could be on uneven surfaces or unpaved paths. Please note that elevators are not available at tour sites. We may have a few drives on poor-quality roads which are required to access the historical and archeological gems of the country. Please make sure to have a comfy outfit and shoes for the sightseeing days. By signing up for this tour, participants agree that they have read and understood all the terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health and have an open mind, a sense of adventure, and the ability to be tolerant and patient for the entire period of the tour. To ensure that the itinerary runs efficiently and for the comfort and/or safety of travelers, Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to modify the order of the sightseeing activities at any time before departure or after the tour begins or cancel the tour if the planned itinerary is not possible to operate in the event of Force Majeure.