Turkmenistan
Discover Ancient Cities, Desert Adventures & Cultural Wonders
Sample Itinerary - 8 Days & 7 Nights
This Customizable Journeys is Available Year-Round
Best Travel Seasons: March - May & September - November
Tour is led by a Licensed English Speaking Local Guide
Tour Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkmenistan, a land of ancient civilizations, vast deserts, and stunning architectural wonders. Witness the mesmerizing Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the "Door to Hell," where flames have burned for decades in the heart of the Karakum Desert. Step back in time at Ancient Merv, a UNESCO-listed site that was once one of the greatest cities of the Silk Road. Explore the mystical ruins of Kone Urgench, the former capital of the Khorezm Empire, adorned with impressive mausoleums and towering minarets. Delve even deeper into history at Gonur Depe, the heart of the enigmatic Bronze Age Margiana civilization, where remnants of a once-thriving metropolis reveal secrets of a forgotten past. From fiery craters to legendary caravan cities, this journey unveils Turkmenistan’s hidden treasures and rich cultural heritage.
Tour Itinerary
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Welcome to Turkmenistan! Arrive in Ashgabat and proceed to Passport Control for immigration followed by baggage collection and clearing customs formalities. After baggage collection, walk towards the arrival lounge where you shall be met by our representative who will assist you while transferring to Divan 5-star Hotel or a similar for check-in. Take a little bit of rest after the Trans-Atlantic flight. Our day starts late, but we're off to the legendary Sunday Bazaar (Open Thu, Sat, and Sun). Also known as Tolkuchka it is one of the largest open marketplaces in Central Asia, and it attracts people from all over the country who are selling or buying camels, cattle, poultry, amulets, carpets, jewelry, and countless other goods. Next, we will visit the National Carpet Museum, which houses thousands of carpets (including the big ones) and carpet products of exceptional quality and value. Enjoy a welcome dinner and overnight at Divan 5-star Hotel or a similar.
Note: The hotel is available for early morning check-in on day 1.
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The first stop of the day is at the UNESCO World Heritage Site fortress of Old Nisa, the original capital of the Parthian Empire. The remains of ancient ceramic pipes and amphora-type pots can be found in the "kitchen" or "vineyard" of the fortified citadel, which was once the Arsakids' home and the earliest of the Parthian Empire's capitals. Other remnants include the Square Throne Hall and the Round Temple, which together made up the palace complex; the Treasury, which had stored ivory rhytons (horn-like vessels); and the remains of the palace's walls. Then we head back to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan and the "Pearl of Central Asia." We also stop by the Earthquake Memorial, which honors those who lost their lives in the 1948 quake, the Park of Independence with its Independence Monument, and Neutrality Square, which is well-known for its Arch of Neutrality, which is topped by a rotating gold-plated statue of the first President of Turkmenistan. The next stop is the National Museum of History and Ethnography, which houses over 327,00 artifacts from the country's many historical and archeological sites. Overnight at Divan 5-star Hotel or a similar.
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Take a flight from Ashgabat to Mary in the morning. Upon arrival, we will drive from Mary to the archeological site of Margush/Gonur Depe in the northeastern direction (30 miles Off-Road). As early as 3000 B.C., people began settling in the Murgab River delta to cultivate the land. The progress of the old economy was maintained over several centuries thanks to the fertile silt from the area, the quantity of water, and the temperate climate. There is a debate among historians that the archeological site of Gonur Depe quite possibly was a fifth center of civilization in addition to the four previously known (Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China). We will enjoy our picnic-type lunch in the desert under the shade. After sightseeing, we will drive back to Mary City. Enjoy the beautiful afternoon at your leisure. Have dinner at a downtown restaurant and stay the night at Mary 4-star hotel or a similar.
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Following our breakfast, we go 25 kilometers east of Mary to Bayram-Ali, the modern reincarnation and humble suburb of the once-glorious Ancient Merv which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a major Central Asian archaeological site. For over two thousand years, Merv was an integral town on the Silk Road Road. Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala, Sultan Kala, Sultan Kala's suburbs, Abdulla-Khan Kala, and Bayram-Alikhan kala, all appeared as the city developed from its earliest days into its modern incarnation. In addition to the ruins, we'll also see the magnificent XII-century mausoleums of Sultan Sanjar and Muhammed ibn-Zeyd, which showcase the fine Seljuk period brickwork and architectural décor of the time. We will return to Mary after our tour. Once in Mary, we visit the local History Museum, which houses artifacts from the Bronze Age and Ancient Merv eras in the Margush region (going back to the 3rd millennium BC). Transfer to Mary Airport so you can catch your flight back to Ashgabat in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, we will have a transfer to the restaurant in Ashgabat and discuss details of the sites we saw in Mary region. Overnight at Divan 5-star Hotel or a similar.
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After breakfast, we will begin our journey to the underground Kov-Ata cave, which contains a unique hot-water sulfur lake (95-98 degrees Fahrenheit all year round). After swimming in the lake, we travel back to Ashgabat. On the way to Ashgabat, we stop at a stud farm near Geok Depe town. It is a former stronghold of the Tekke tribe and the location of the greatest battle for Russian dominance in Central Asia in the late 19th century. After arriving at the farm, you will be guided through the stud farm and given a display and introduction to Akhal Teke horses. Visit the Spirituality Mosque complex, the largest in Turkmenistan, and the family mausoleum of the first President in Kipchak on the way. Overnight at Divan 5-star Hotel or a similar.
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This morning, we fly to the northern region of Turkmenistan, Dashoguz, to view the remarkable monuments of the Khorezm Empire. As soon as we arrive, we drive to the former capital of the Khorezmshah Empire, Kunya-Urgench (Old Urgench). The World Heritage Site of UNESCO Kunya Urgench welcomes you with the mausoleum of Turabeg Khanum (15 c.), one of the best architectural examples of its time; the minaret of Kutlug Temur (11-14 cc. ), the tallest medieval minaret in Central Asia; the mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh (late 12 c.), with a turquoise cone as its dome; and the mausoleum of Il-Ar Arslan. If time permits, we will stop at the Sufi pilgrimage site known as Nijmeddin Kubra. Enjoy a traditional Uzbek/Turkmen lunch in Kone Urgench. Drive from Kone Urgench to Darvaza, the legendary Fire Crater. When we arrive, the blazing crater will be a few hundred meters apart. Enjoy the photo session near the Fire crater. Dinner and overnight in yurts or tents near the flaming gas crater.
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In the morning, after a hearty camp breakfast, head back to Ashgabat. We'll stop briefly at two more craters along the route, both of which include bubbling mud and water that are likely caused by subsurface gas. Continue to Yerbent and Bokurdak, two settlements in the desert that can provide us a glimpse into what it's like to live in the desert. Yerbent is the largest and most important settlement in Central Karakum, and its mixture of traditional homes, satellite dishes, and incidental oasis-type vegetation stand out in stark contrast to the surrounding yellow desert. Upon arrival at Ashgabat check into a hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Enjoy your farewell dinner. Overnight at Divan 5-star Hotel or a similar.
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After breakfast in the morning, transfer to the airport for the flight returning to the US. End of the service.
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We offer Tailor-Made Itineraries & Custom Quotes for Your Journey to Turkmenistan
All itineraries can be tailored to match your interests and budget for a truly personalized experience. Pricing is based on solo or double occupancy. The pricing listed below is for 2025 travel dates and may vary depending on your preferred itinerary and seasonality. Contact our travel consultant today to receive a personalized quote and begin designing your ideal Turkmenistan journey!
Land Tour Price Only (International airfare, taxes & fuel surcharges are not included)
Solo Traveler: From $3,500 (Single Room Occupancy)
Two Travelers: From $2,750 Per Person (Double Room Occupancy)
Single Room Supplement: $250 Per Person (Applies to all nights of the tour for those opting for a single room.)
Tour Includes
One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
The final documents packet will be mailed before the trip.
Transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants arriving & departing with the group.
Eight (8) nights of accommodation at 5* and 4* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
4x4 vehicles for day 3 (Seating 3 pax per Jeep)
ASB – MRY – ASB, ASB –DAS Domestic flights.
Service of a licensed local English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are as per the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Letter of invitation for TKM visa.
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tour Does Not Include
International air USA – Ashgabat - USA.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Visa and immigration fees on arrival.
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.
Departure/Arrival transfers between home city & Airport, USA.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Porterage at the hotels.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Tour Fitness Level
Moderate: Suitable for travelers of all ages in good health, with a moderate level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. The tour will include some long walking days and periods of standing while exploring various sites. Some attractions may involve walking on uneven terrain or navigating steep staircases. Expect a few elevation changes, a well-paced but busy schedule, and several long overland drives. If you have any questions or would like more details about the trip, we’re happy to discuss it with you.
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.
Visa & Passport
U.S. citizens require a Turkmenistan visa. 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.
What to Expect on This Journey
This journey through Turkmenistan’s vast deserts, ancient cities, and Silk Road heritage sites will involve long overland drives as we explore the country’s diverse landscapes. While major roads are generally well-maintained, some routes, especially those leading to remote archaeological and cultural sites—may be bumpy or less developed. To ensure your comfort, we provide air-conditioned transportation, with regular rest stops to stretch, take in the scenery, and experience Turkmenistan’s unique natural beauty.
During sightseeing days, travelers should be prepared to walk 2 to 3 miles daily to fully explore historical ruins, bustling bazaars, and UNESCO-listed landmarks. Walking may involve uneven terrain, sand dunes, and cobblestone streets, especially in ancient cities and desert regions. Please note that elevators are not available at many historical sites.
Some of our routes may include off-road travel to access hidden gems such as the burning Darvaza Gas Crater, Silk Road caravanserais, and remote desert settlements. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, sun protection, and sturdy walking shoes to ensure an enjoyable experience.
By joining this tour, participants confirm that they have read and understood all terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health. A spirit of adventure, patience, and flexibility will enhance your experience as we uncover Turkmenistan’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. While we strive to provide a seamless travel experience, itinerary adjustments may be necessary due to local conditions or unforeseen circumstances. In rare cases of Force Majeure, changes or cancellations may be required to prioritize the safety and comfort of all participants.
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