Ashgabat Merv Darvaza Koneurgench - 4 Day Tour
About this tour
Discover the best of Turkmenistan in just 4 days! Begin your journey in the white-marble capital, Ashgabat, exploring its modern monuments, parks, and vibrant culture. On the second day, travel to the ancient Silk Road city of Merv — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — where you’ll walk among centuries-old ruins and immerse yourself in Turkmen history. The adventure continues on day three with a thrilling trip across the Karakum Desert to the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater, where you’ll enjoy a unique overnight camp under the stars beside the “Gates of Hell.” Finally, return to Ashgabat for some final sightseeing or shopping before your departure. A perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure!
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ashgabat International Airport, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Welcome to Turkmenistan! Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport our guide will greet you and assist with hotel check-in. Highlights of the day: Check-in at Hotel Visit to the majestic Wedding Palace Panoramic photo stop at the iconic Yyldyz Hotel Explore the beautiful Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, inspired by Ottoman architecture Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat
Day 2: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Merv, Turkmenistan
ning: Breakfast and check-out from Ashgabat hotel Drive east to Mary, the cultural gateway to ancient Merv Hotel check-in upon arrival Afternoon Tour: Lunch at a local restaurant Guided tour of Merv (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum Gyz Gala (Large & Small) Muhammed ibn Zaid Mausoleum Ancient Keshk Fortress ruins Then drive Back to Ashgabat Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat
Day 3: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Derweze, Turkmenistan
Breakfast at the hotel Free morning to relax or explore on your own Afternoon departure to Darvaza (275 km / approx. 4 hours drive) through the Karakum Desert Visit the world-famous Darvaza Gas Crater, burning continuously for over 50 years – a surreal sight especially after sunset. Explore surrounding water craters and enjoy the desert breeze. Experience nomadic life, camp in a traditional yurt or private tent Dinner: BBQ under the stars by the crater Overnight: Desert camp at Darvaza
Day 4: Door to Hell, Derweze, Turkmenistan to Dash Mosque Museum, Köneürgench, Turkmenistan
Picnic style Breakfast at Gas Crater. Drive to Kunya Urgench (267km, 6h due to bad road conditions). Sightseeing tour in Kunya Urgench: visit Portal of Caravansaray, II Arslan Mausoleum, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, Academy of Horezm, Kutlug Timur Minaret, Turabek Hanum Mausoleum. Then, drive to the Turkmen/Uzbek border Shavat (106km, 2h).
What's included
International flights Cost of Turkmen visa w/border fees (70 – 130 USD) PCR test Photo/video fees at historical parks and in museums Tips for guide and driver Medical insurance Meals not mentioned in the program Souvenirs and other personal items All other charges and services not mentioned under “Included”
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Ashgabat International Airport, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan