Turkmenistan: 4-day Essential Tour
About this tour
Located in Central Asia, Turkmenistan is a land shrouded in mystery, boasting vast deserts, ancient Silk Road cities and impressive monuments. Also known as the "Gates of Hell," Darvaza gas crater in the Karakum Desert is a mesmerizing sight, especially at night. The first capital of the Parthian Empire, Nisa offers insights into this ancient civilization through its archaeological remains. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Merv was once a major city on the Silk Road and boasts impressive ruins of ancient architecture. The underground lake Kov ata is a unique lake that is located in a cave and known for its therapeutic properties. A medieval settlement of Abiverd was one of the most important cities of Nothern Khorasan. Nohur is a mountainous area in the Kopetdag mountains, which consists of several small villages. Ashgabat is a capital city where is full of white marble and golden architecture.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ashgabat International Airport, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
You will be met by our representative at Ashgabat International Airport. Transfer to the hotel to check-in. Get a city tour. Embark on a scenic drive to Ashgabat, the gleaming white marble capital of Turkmenistan. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Ashgabat with a comprehensive city tour. Marvel at the architectural marvels of the Wedding Palace, the modern "Yildiz" Hotel, and the impressive Ferris Wheel. Visit the Constitution Monument and the Arch of Neutrality, iconic landmarks that symbolize the nation's aspirations. Visit the Monument and Park of Independence. Explore the spiritual side of Ashgabat with a visit to the Ertogrul Gazy Mosque. Conclude your day with a glimpse of the impressive Ashgabat Olympic Stadium. Retire to your comfortable night at hotel, ready for the next leg of your journey.
Day 2: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Nokhur, Turkmenistan
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Nohur village. En route, you will visit famous Geokdepe horse farm. The Akhal-Teke is a truly unique and remarkable breed of horse originating from Turkmenistan. They are considered one of the oldest horse breeds in the world, with a history dating back thousands of years. Akhal-Tekes are known for their elegant and refined build, with a long, arched neck and a graceful carriage. These horses are renowned for their incredible speed and endurance, having been bred for centuries in the harsh desert conditions of Central Asia. They are highly intelligent and brave, known for their strong bond with their riders. Continue your trip with a visit to Turkmenbashi Ruhy mosque. Then drive to the captivating underground lake of Kovata, a must-see for any visitor to Turkmenistan that emerged in 1856 within the depths of the Baherden cave. While its existence was known, it gained wider recognition in 1896 following a local press article that celebrated the efforts of Baharly railway station employees. To reach this natural wonder, visitors must descend 350 steps, a journey rewarded by the sight of the lake's therapeutic waters, maintaining a constant temperature between 33 and 38 °C year-round. After enjoying fresh air of Kovata drive to visit Nohur village. A visit to Nohur offers several unique experiences. Explore the ancient "great tree," a revered landmark within the village. Visit the isolated cemetery, where nearly every grave is adorned with a wooden post intricately decorated with the horns of a mountain goat. And don't miss the opportunity to make a sacred wish at the "Kyz Bibi" tree, a revered site of pilgrimage. Drive back to hotel in Ashgabat.
Day 3: Nokhur, Turkmenistan to Derweze, Turkmenistan
Start your day with enjoyable breakfast at hotel. Drive to visit Nisa, ancient capital of Parthian Empire. Drive to the bustling bazaar-Gulistan, known as "Russian bazaar". Drive to visit the State Museum of State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan and stroll along the Magtymguly Pyragy Cultural Park Complex. Afternoon drive the the mesmerizing place of Turkmenistan-Darvaza gas crater which is burning from 1971 till nowadays. Enjoy the night view of Darvaza and have dinner near there. Overnight at traditional yurt.
Day 4: Derweze, Turkmenistan to Dashoguz, Turkmenistan
Have picnic-style breakfast near the fascinating Darvaza. Today is the last day of your tour. Transfer to the Turkmen-Uzbek border "Shavat".
What's 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