Venture into the rugged and remote landscapes of Turkmenistan’s Far East on an unforgettable journey through the Koytendag region. This tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of the world’s most significant paleontological sites, the Dinosaur Plateau, where ancient history is etched into the earth. As you walk alongside the footprints left by dinosaurs millions of years ago, you’ll be transported back in time to an era of colossal creatures and untamed wilderness.
But this tour is not just about ancient history—it’s also a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. From the serene Kainar Baba Lake, known for its healing sulfur springs, to the stunning Umbar Dere Gorge and its cascading waterfall, the landscapes of Koytendag are as varied as they are breathtaking. Along the way, you’ll visit sacred sites like the Kyrk Gyz pilgrim cave, where tradition and spirituality meet in a remarkable setting.
Additionally, the historical Astana Baba and Alamberdar mausoleums provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a unique adventure, the Koytendag Tour is a rare chance to experience a hidden gem in Turkmenistan. With rugged terrains, stunning vistas, and deep-rooted history, this tour promises to be an adventure of a lifetime.
Begin your journey with a morning flight from Ashgabat to Turkmenabat. Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to Koyten village, nestled in the Kugitang Mountains of Turkmenistan’s Far East. Along the way, stop at the Astana Baba and Alamberdar Mausoleum Complex, historical sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Prepare for an adventurous long drive of approximately 11 hours (450 km) in a 4×4 vehicle. Upon arrival, enjoy a camp-style dinner and overnight stay at Koytendag Base Lodge.
After breakfast, set out to explore the Dinosaur Plateau, home to one of the largest and most significant collections of dinosaur footprints in the world. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the plateau, surrounded by the ancient imprints of these magnificent creatures. Continue your adventure with a visit to the Kyrk Gyz pilgrim cave, a sacred site where pilgrims attach cloth pieces to the ceiling in hopes of having their wishes granted. End the day with a short walk through the Umbar Dere Gorge to its beautiful waterfall. Return to the base lodge for a camp-style dinner and overnight stay.
Start the day with breakfast before heading to Kainar Baba Lake, a small lake known for its sulfur spring with reputed healing properties. Afterward, transfer to Amyderya station to board the overnight train back to Ashgabat. The train departs at 15:00, offering a unique travel experience through the scenic landscapes. Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodations on the train.
Arrive in Ashgabat at 08:45 and transfer to your hotel, the airport, or any other location of your choice in the city, marking the end of your memorable Koytendag adventure.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $1390 | $1000 | $990 | $880 | $800 |
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour programme with English-speaking, local guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation with breakfasts included (rooms at base lodge, and cabin on train, will be shared between up to four people) Lunch on Day 2; Dinners on Days 1-3 Economy class flight tickets Ashgabat-Turkmenabat Train ticket Amyderya-Ashgabat (sharing a 4-person sleeper cabin
Full board (meals not specified in the itinerary) Round-trip tickets for flight Tashkent-Nukus-Tashkent Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Visa support (invitation letter, registration, travel pass)
The Koytendag Tour was an incredible journey through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of Turkmenistan. The Dinosaur Plateau was truly the highlight, with ancient footprints that transported me back in time. The visit to the Kyrk Gyz pilgrim cave was equally fascinating, and the scenery at Umbar Dere Gorge was breathtaking. The long drive was tiring, but the experience was worth it. The overnight train ride back to Ashgabat added a unique touch to the trip. Highly recommend for those who love history and nature!
This tour was a real adventure! Seeing the Dinosaur Plateau in Koytendag was an unforgettable experience. The footprints are so well-preserved, and our guide provided great insight into their significance. The trek through Umbar Dere Gorge to the waterfall was another highlight, offering stunning views of the natural landscape. The camp-style dinners were delicious, and staying at the Koytendag Base Lodge made the experience feel authentic. The long drive was a bit challenging, but it was all part of the journey. Overall, a fantastic tour that I would recommend to anyone looking to explore Turkmenistan’s hidden gems.
Koytendag is a hidden treasure! The Dinosaur Plateau is an absolute must-see, with some of the largest and most important dinosaur footprints in the world. Walking on the same ground where dinosaurs once roamed was surreal. I also loved visiting the Kyrk Gyz cave, which has such a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. The trip to Kainar Baba Lake was relaxing, and the overnight train ride was surprisingly comfortable. The long journey to get there was tough, but the experience was well worth it. I left feeling enriched by the history and natural beauty of the area.
The Koytendag Tour was an adventure like no other. The Dinosaur Plateau was beyond fascinating—I could hardly believe I was seeing real dinosaur footprints. The guide was very knowledgeable, which made the experience even more enriching. The visit to Umbar Dere Gorge was breathtaking, with its stunning waterfall and serene atmosphere. The journey was long, but the unique sights made it worthwhile. Camping at Koytendag Base Lodge was a great way to immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings. This tour is perfect for those who love to combine history, nature, and a bit of adventure.