Discover Turkmenistan: City Life, Silk Road & Desert Nights

Turkmenistan 5 days SUV 4x4 from €765 per person
Muhammet Verified Host
Local Expert@if($ssr['country']) · Turkmenistan specialist@endif

About this tour

Experience the fascinating contrasts of Turkmenistan, from the elegant marble architecture of Ashgabat to the ancient Silk Road city of Merv and the spectacular flames of the Darvaza Gas Crater.

This five-day journey is ideal for curious travelers, history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and adventure seekers who want to discover the highlights of Turkmenistan in a short but memorable trip.

Explore Ashgabat’s impressive Independence Square, the Monument of Neutrality, and the National Museum of Turkmenistan. Visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum to learn about the country's rich weaving traditions, and experience local life at Gulistan Bazaar, where traditional flavors and everyday culture come together.

Travel to Ancient Merv, a remarkable historical site along the legendary Silk Road. Discover the impressive Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and explore the remains of Erk Kala and Gyaur Kala while learning about the civilizations, trade routes, and cultural heritage that shaped this historic region.

The adventure continues in the vast Karakum Desert, where you will visit the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, often called the “Gates of Hell,” along with nearby mud and water craters. As evening falls, enjoy a barbecue dinner beneath the desert sky and spend an unforgettable night in a traditional-style yurt.

Throughout the journey, discover Turkmenistan's architecture, history, traditions, cuisine, and contrasting landscapes, from modern city life to ancient ruins and remote desert scenery. This tour offers a wonderful introduction to a destination that remains one of Central Asia's most intriguing places to explore.

Camping
Culture
History
Yurt Stay
City Tour

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Международный аэропорт Ашхабада, Ашхабад, Туркменистан to Ашхабад, Туркменистан

Arrive in Ashgabat and enjoy a warm welcome from your guide before transferring to the hotel for rest and breakfast. Discover the capital’s impressive marble architecture, Independence Square, the Monument of Neutrality, the National Museum, and the Turkmen Carpet Museum. Experience local life at Gulistan Bazaar and enjoy traditional Turkmen cuisine for lunch and dinner. Overnight at Sport Hotel.

Day 2: Ашхабад, Туркменистан to Мары, Туркменистан

After breakfast, travel to Mary and explore the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the historic Silk Road. Discover the impressive Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and the ancient ruins of Erk Kala and Gyaur Kala while learning about the region’s rich history. Enjoy lunch and dinner before checking in at Rahatlyk Hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Мары, Туркменистан to Ашхабад, Туркменистан

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a scenic drive back to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s elegant marble capital. Upon arrival, explore the city’s modern shopping scene with visits to Berkarar Shopping Center and Ashgabat Mall, where you can browse local and international brands. Enjoy lunch and dinner at local restaurants and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere before returning to Sport Hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 4: Ашхабад, Туркменистан to Дарваза Гас Кратер, Дарваза, Туркменистан

Embark on an exciting journey into the vast Karakum Desert, where the spectacular Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the “Gates of Hell,” awaits. Explore the nearby mud and water craters and admire the unique desert landscapes. As evening falls, enjoy a barbecue dinner beneath the starry sky, followed by an unforgettable overnight stay in a traditional-style yurt, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the desert.

Day 5: Дарваза Гас Кратер, Дарваза, Туркменистан to Ашхабад, Туркменистан

Conclude your journey with a comfortable drive back to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of Turkmenistan’s rich history, vibrant culture, and remarkable landscapes.

What's included

Included
Guide
Fuel
Lunch
Accommodation
Domestic Bus/Flight Tickets
Camping Equipment
Driver
Breakfast
Dinner
Activities
Entrance Tickets
Beverages
Notes on included services

- Letter of Invitation - Accommodation at “Sport” and “Rahatlyk” hotels - Overnight stay in a traditional nomadic yurt camp - English-speaking guide - Private transportation by van - Breakfast at the hotel - Lunch and dinner - Museum entrance tickets - Travel insurance

Notes on not included

- Turkmenistan visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport - Immigration tax at the airport - COVID-19 testing at the airport - International flights to and from Turkmenistan - Personal expenses - Tips and gratuities - Any services not mentioned under “Included Services”

Languages spoken

English
Russian
Turkmenian

What to know

Before the trip, travelers should prepare all required documents, including a valid passport and the necessary travel documents. Cash is essential, as card payments are generally not available in Turkmenistan. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings in the desert. Travelers should also be prepared for long drives and changing weather conditions during the journey.

Route & locations

Международный аэропорт Ашхабада, Ашхабад, Туркменистан to Ашхабад, Туркменистан