Turkmenistan

Feb 13

Written By Undiscovered Frontiers

“Karakum Desert Adventure: Nomads & Fearless Guardians of the Desert”

March 19 - March 29, 2026

The Tour is led by a Specialist Alabai Breeder
& Local Licensed Guide

**Tour Introduction:**

Join us on a thrilling adventure through the heart of Turkmenistan, where the **Karakum Desert** meets the timeless traditions of **nomadic life** and the legendary **Alabai dogs**. This immersive journey offers a rare glimpse into the enduring legacy of **Turkmen shepherds**, whose lifestyle and connection with their **Alabai dogs** have shaped centuries of desert survival. Explore remote villages, where semi-nomadic families live in harmony with nature, guided by their fearless Alabai guardians. As you journey through the desert, discover the rich history of these majestic dogs, from ancient times to their vital role in modern-day Turkmen culture. Along the way, experience the beauty of the Karakum Desert, from the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater to the ancient Ygdykala Fortress, each stop revealing rich history and tradition. Discover the wisdom of local shepherds and their deep bond with Alabai dogs and visit breeders who will share their knowledge of this noble breed.

Tour Itinerary:

Welcome to Turkmenistan! Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for early check-in. After breakfast, we begin exploring Ashgabat, renowned for its white marble architecture. Key visits include the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, honoring national heroes, and the Bagt Koshgi (Palace of Happiness) with panoramic city views. A scenic drive takes us past the Monument of the Constitution, Alem Ferris Wheel, Magtymguly Monument, and the Alabai Monument. In the afternoon, visit renowned Alabai breeders to learn about this iconic shepherd dog. The day concludes with a welcome dinner overlooking the city. Overnight at Archabil or a similar 4-star hotel.
Note: The hotel is available for early morning check in on March 19.
Today, we set off on an exciting journey from Ashgabat to Mary, a perfect adventure for shepherd dog enthusiasts. Our drive takes us through Kahka and Tejen, the heartland of the legendary Turkmen Alabai, where world-famous bloodlines like Ak Yekemen and Kor Gaplan originated. As we leave the city behind, the landscape unfolds into vast open plains, where flocks of sheep roam under the watchful eyes of fearless Alabai guardians. If we spot a large flock in the distance, we may venture off-road to meet local shepherds, hear their stories, and witness these incredible dogs in action. In Tejen, we’ll visit a renowned Alabai kennel, offering a rare opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich heritage of this remarkable breed. We then continue to Mary, where a comfortable stay and a delicious dinner at Margush or a similar 3-star hotel await.
We begin our Karakum Desert adventure, venturing into the vast, arid landscape where survival depends on resilienceand the protection of the fearless Alabai dogs. Our 4x4 journey from Mary to the Gonurdepe archaeological site takes us through this unforgiving terrain, where excavations have uncovered ancient dog skeletons, revealing the deep historical roots of the Alabai breed. Along the way, we may stop to witness these loyal guardians in action, protecting livestock from predators. Continuing deeper into the desert, we reach remote settlements like Mirza Chirla and Akmolla, where Turkmen shepherds maintain their traditional way of life in clay houses or yurts. Here, the Alabai remain an essential part of daily survival. As night falls, we’ll set up camp under a sky full of stars, sharing a traditional nomadic meal in the Karakum Desert and exchanging stories with local shepherds about the bravery of this remarkable breed.
Our journey goes deeper into the Karakum Desert, leaving Akmolla for the remote Damla Village. Our 4x4 expedition navigates shifting dunes and rugged trails, encountering semi-nomadic shepherds with their fearless Alabai dogs. In Damla Village, one of the most secluded settlements, we meet local families preserving centuries-old traditions, from yurt-dwelling customs to desert survival skills. Here, we also discover the Tazy dog, a revered hunting companion, and experience traditional falconry, a skill passed down through generations. As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Turkmen meal by an open fire, followed by desert tales under a breathtaking star-filled sky. Overnight in yurts or tents.
We say thank you for the local hospitality and leave Damla Village to continue our 4x4 expedition through the Karakum Desert, traversing endless dunes and rugged terrain. Along the way, we encounter semi-nomadic herders and their Alabai dogs, the last guardians of this vast wilderness. Our journey leads to the awe-inspiring Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the "Door to Hell." As the landscape shifts to barren, moon-like terrain, we arrive at this fiery pit, burning for decades in the heart of the desert. Tonight, we camp near the crater, enjoying a traditional Turkmen meal by an open fire. Beneath a sky ablaze with stars, we share stories of the Karakum nomads, with the mesmerizing flames of Darvaza lighting up an unforgettable night.
After breakfast, we leave Darvaza’s fiery glow behind, continuing our 4x4 expedition through the Karakum Desert toward the ancient Parthian fortress of Ygdykala. Along the way, we stop in Balishem, a remote village where life remains unchanged for generations. Here, we meet local families who depend on well water, livestock herding, and their loyal Alabai dogs for survival. Further into the desert, we pause at Akyayla, known for its rolling dunes and dramatic formations, offering a moment to appreciate the desert’s solitude. By late afternoon, we reach Ygdykala, a silent sentinel over the sands. As the sun sets, casting golden hues over the ancient ruins, we reflect on the centuries of history embedded in this awe-inspiring place. Enjoy a nomadic dinner before an overnight stay in tents.
Today, we leave Ygdykala’s ancient ruins, heading toward the Kopet Dag Range, where the desert meets rugged mountains. After passing military checkpoints, we descend into the lush Sumbar Valley, an oasis where shepherds and Alabai dogs tend their flocks. A picnic lunch offers a moment to appreciate the valley’s striking contrast. Continuing to Karakala, a remote village amid dramatic rock formations, we witness traditions unchanged for generations. By sunset, we reach Kuruzhdey, where we settle into our desert camp, enjoying a traditional Turkmen dinner by the fire under a star-lit sky.
We depart Kuruzhdey, traveling through the Kopet Dag foothills. Our first stop, Koyno Kumbez, is known for its ancient mausoleums and sacred sites, where we meet shepherds and their Alabai dogs. Continuing to Saywan, a semi-nomadic village, we pause for freshly brewed Turkmen tea, sharing stories with locals. In Desht, we observe traditional herding techniques and the deep bond between nomads and their Alabai guardians. By late afternoon, we arrive in Nokhur, a mystical village famed for its ancient walnut trees and sacred traditions. We settle into a local guesthouse, enjoying warm hospitality and a home-cooked Turkmen dinner by the fire.
After delicous Nokhuri breakfast, we depart Nokhur and head toward the Murche Fortress in the Kopet Dag foothills, offering stunning views and insight into the region’s strategic history. After exploring the fortress, we visit the Köw Ata Underground Lake for a refreshing swim in its warm, sulfur-rich waters, known for their healing properties. We then drive to Gökdepe, passing the historic Gökdepe Fortress, site of a key 1881 battle with Russian forces. We end the day at the Akhal-Teke horse stud farm, marveling at the elegant Akhal-Teke horses. The journey concludes with dinner and ovr night at Archabil or a similar 4-star hotel.
Today, we celebrate the vibrant Nowruz Festival, marking the Persian New Year. We begin with a visit to Torlkuchk Bazaar, experiencing the lively market against the backdrop of the Kopet-Dag Mountains. After returning to Ashgabat, we immerse ourselves in Nowruz festivities, a celebration of spring and renewal. We then travel to Yayla, a charming village in the Akhal Region, where the festival comes alive with traditional music, delicious Turkmen dishes, and the impressive sight of Turkmen shepherd dogs. In the afternoon, enjoy free time before our farewell dinner and overnight stay in Ashgabat, concluding our unforgettable journey.
After breakfast in the morning, you will be transferred to Ashgabat International Airport for your international flight home. End of the service.

Land Tour Price: (Excludes international airfare, taxes & fuel surcharges)

Group Size: Minimum 7, Maximum 14 Participants
Tour Price: $4,150 Per Person Based on Double Occupancy
Single Room Supplement: $200 Per Person (Solo travelers may request a shared room. If no roommate is available, the single supplement fee will apply)

Booking Details: This tour is priced and operated based on a group arrangement, requiring a minimum of 8 participants and a maximum capacity of 14 travelers. To confirm your booking, submit a signed Tour Booking Form along with a $1,000 per person deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before departure. The Initial Deposit Guarantee allows cancellations up to 91 days before departure. Please refer to the full Terms & Conditions for details on refunds and cancellation policies. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to help!
Why is Travel Insurance Important: In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact on your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer Travelex Insurance protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For more information on the available plans contact Travelex Insurance at 1-800-228-9792 and reference our location number 22-0359.

Tour Includes:

One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Letter of Invitation for Turkmenistan Visa on arrival.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Ten (10) nights of accommodation: 4 nights at 4-star hotels, 1 night at Guest House in Nokhur, 4 nights in desert camps, and 1 night in a traditional yurt.
Camping gear: Mat, sleeping bag (silk liner not included)
Air-conditioned coach transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
4x4 Jeeps for days in the desert and off-road drives.
Services of Tour leader and local English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites and activities in the itinerary.
All meals mentioned in the itinerary (11 breakfasts, 6 Picnic lunches, 10 dinners).
Porterage at the hotels.
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.

Tour Does Not Include:

International Round Airfare (Turkish Airlines offers convenient and direct flights).
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, items from hotels mini bars, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (Recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodation, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Any item not mentioned as included.
Turkmenistan Visa Fee on arrival (Approx: $55-$77).
Video Camera fees at the historical, archeological sites and local museums.

Book Now

Inquire About Tour

Tour Fitness Level:

Challenging: Suitable for travelers of all ages in good health, with a strong fitness level and a sense of adventure, this journey offers an intense, off-the-beaten-path experience. It includes physically demanding days, such as hikes on rugged terrain, long off-road drives, and hot, humid conditions. You’ll enjoy simple picnic meals and overnight stays in basic lodges with shared bathroom facilities. If you have any questions about physical demands or logistics, we’re happy to provide further details.

Lodging Level:

Comfortable (3/4-stars): Stay in cozy lodges and hotels with comfortable rooms and en-suite bathrooms. While the services may be more straightforward, you’ll still enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, with essential amenities and on-site facilities that provide a comfortable, hassle-free experience, all meeting international standards.

Guest Houses/Yurts: For a truly authentic experience, you’ll stay in simple, clean guesthouses, yurt or desert camps that offer a unique opportunity to connect with local cultures and stunning landscapes.

Visa & Passport:

U.S. & European passport holders must obtain a visa to enter Turkmenistan. A letter of invitation (LOI) approved by the Turkmenistan State Migration Service is required before applying for a visa. With an approved LOI, travelers can obtain a visa on arrival. Further details regarding the visa application process will be provided 60 days before the trip. Ensuring that the correct and valid visa is obtained remains the sole responsibility of the traveler. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the last day of the trip and must contain sufficient blank pages for visa stamps.

What to Expect on This Journey:

This exceptional journey through the Karakum Desert is specially designed for true Alabai enthusiasts who are eager to witness these legendary working dogs in their natural environment. Throughout the adventure, you will have ample opportunities to observe the Alabai dogs as they perform their crucial guardian duties in the vast expanse of the desert. The itinerary includes extensive off-road driving in specially equipped 4x4 vehicles, allowing you to traverse the rugged terrain, shifting sand dunes, and remote desert trails, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience.

Overnight stays will be spent in desert camps under the expansive night sky. The accommodation will include nights in traditional tents and yurts, offering an unparalleled chance to immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle of the region. As you journey through this remote landscape, you will enjoy picnic-style lunches, which provide a relaxing break to rest and soak in the awe-inspiring desert scenery. In the evenings, traditional nomadic dinners will be prepared over an open fire, allowing you to indulge in authentic local flavors while being surrounded by the serene beauty of the Karakum Desert. This adventure will take you through varied and often challenging terrain, with remote desert paths and dramatic landscapes that are both breathtaking and demanding. The journey is perfect for those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, with ample opportunities to connect with the spirit of nomadic life and to witness firsthand the resilience of both the desert and the people who live there.

Please be advised that, given the nature of this remote adventure, bathroom and toilet arrangements will be basic and wild, with facilities primarily limited to the desert surroundings. For your convenience, basic shower arrangements will be available in the smaller villages along the way, though these will be simple. We recommend preparing for the experience by packing comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and a strong sense of adventure to fully embrace this unforgettable journey.

Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to adjust the order of sightseeing activities if necessary to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Should you have any questions or require further details about the program, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.