Embark on a captivating four-day extension tour that uncovers the best of Turkmenistan, a hidden gem in Central Asia. This immersive adventure combines the region’s most spectacular natural wonders and fascinating historical sites, perfect for travelers seeking both history and beauty in a compact itinerary.
Start your journey at the surreal Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the «Gates of Hell.» As night falls, you’ll camp near the crater, marveling at the dancing flames that illuminate the desert sky. From here, journey to Ashgabat, a city that dazzles with its gleaming white marble architecture and impressive landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Old Nisa. Explore this ancient site, a testament to Turkmenistan’s rich heritage.
Next, head to Mary, where the ancient city of Merv awaits. Once a vital Silk Road hub, Merv offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its historical ruins like the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and Keshk Fortress.
Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy expertly curated experiences, including visits to cultural landmarks, ancient ruins, and natural wonders. The blend of Ashgabat’s modernity, the ancient allure of Merv, and the captivating sight of the Darvaza Gas Crater makes this tour a must for any curious traveler. With Shahina Travel’s seamless organization, you’ll get the most out of your visit, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Turkmenistan’s most iconic attractions.
Book your spot on this exceptional four-day adventure and dive into the heart of Central Asia!
The tour begins with a 09:30 departure from Khiva, where you will drive to the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan border at Shavat-Dashoguz, located about 60 km away (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival at the border, you will go through the required customs and passport control procedures on both sides. After completing these formalities, you will cross the 1.5 km neutral zone (please note that transportation may not be available here). Once you reach the other side, a local Turkmen guide will greet you and accompany you on a scenic 4-hour journey to the Darvaza Gas Crater, located in the heart of the Karakum Desert (270 km).
Upon arrival at the crater, you will set up camp for the night. As the sun sets over the desert landscape, enjoy a delicious fire-cooked dinner near the spectacularly glowing gas crater, often referred to as the “Gates of Hell” due to its fiery flames. Overnight will be spent in a camping style environment, where you’ll be provided with sleeping bags, pillows, and either a one- or two-person tent. You may also opt to share a yurt with 3 to 5 fellow travelers. Basic washing facilities and toilets are available outside the camp area.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2 hours
Meals: Camp-style dinner
After a camp-style breakfast, we begin the 280 km (3.5-hour) drive to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Along the way, make a stop at several water and mud craters, natural wonders that have formed over time in the Karakum Desert. Upon arrival in Ashgabat, check into your hotel before heading out to explore the city.
Your tour of Ashgabat includes visits to notable landmarks, starting with the National Museum of History, which houses a rich collection of Turkmenistan’s cultural and historical artifacts. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Ashgabat at your leisure or relax at the hotel. The evening is free to enjoy the capital’s beautiful ambiance.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2-3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat
After breakfast, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Ashgabat. The city is famous for its impressive collection of white marble buildings, earning it the Guinness World Record for the highest density of marble structures in any city worldwide. Your tour will include a visit to the archaeological site of Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a major Parthian settlement. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the city’s historical significance. Next, visit the grand Spiritual Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia, and the Monument of Neutrality, a symbol of the country’s foreign policy.
You’ll also visit the recently completed Independence Park, the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and the Ahalteke horse stables, home to Turkmenistan’s world-famous Akhal-Teke horses.
In the afternoon, transfer to Ashgabat Airport for your evening flight to Mary, departing at 18:50 and arriving at 19:30. After arrival, transfer to your hotel in Mary for check-in and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city on your own.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Mary
After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a short 30-minute drive (40 km) to Merv, an ancient Silk Road city that flourished as a center of trade and culture. Visit the UNESCO-listed Ancient Merv Historical and Cultural Park, home to some of the most important ruins in Central Asia. Key sights include the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the Large and Small Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, and Keshk Fortress. These ruins provide insight into the grandeur of Merv during its time as a prominent city on the Silk Road.
In the afternoon, travel to the Farap-Alat border crossing, located 290 km (approximately 5.5 hours) from Merv. After completing border formalities on both sides and crossing the neutral zone, you will meet your Uzbek driver and continue your journey to Bukhara, which is around 100 km (1.5 hours) away. Upon arrival in Bukhara, check into your hotel and enjoy free time to unwind after a full day of travel. This marks the end of your 4-day extension tour to Turkmenistan.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Bukhara
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $1800 | $1250 | $1150 | $1050 | $950 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $1850 | $1300 | $1200 | $1100 | $1000 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour programme with local guides Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Accommodation based on double trekking tent or shared yurts (4 pax in each yurt, incl. sleeping mat, sleeping bag, pillow and toilet), including breakfast and BBQ dinner (1 night) Economy class ticket for flight Ashgabat-Mary English speaking tour leader in Turkmenistan Visa support for Turkmenistan tourist visa
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa and associated expenses Full board (lunches and dinners) International flight tickets before and after the tour
I had the most incredible experience on the 4-day extension tour to Turkmenistan organized by Shahina Travel. From the start, everything was perfectly arranged. The drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater was an unforgettable adventure. Watching the «Gates of Hell» burn brightly in the Karakum Desert as we enjoyed a fire-cooked dinner was something I’ll never forget. Ashgabat was equally impressive, with its dazzling white marble buildings and fascinating history. The visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Nisa and the Spiritual Mosque was eye-opening. I also loved exploring Merv, the ancient Silk Road city, where I could really feel the rich history. Shahina Travel did a fantastic job organizing everything, from the smooth border crossings to the seamless connections between cities. This tour was an excellent blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Highly recommended!