3-Day Turkmenistan Tour Exploring History, Darvaza Crater and Ashgabat
Highlights
Dasoguz, Darvaza, Ashgabat, Mari
Locations Covered
Dasoguz, Darvaza, Ashgabat, Mari
nature, photography, sightseeing
Private Tour
3 Days
Medium
English
Description
Experience an unforgettable 3-day journey through the heart of Turkmenistan, blending ancient history, natural wonders, and modern elegance. Begin with a visit to the UNESCO-listed ruins of Köneürgenç, then travel deep into the Karakum Desert to witness the mesmerizing Darvaza Gas Crater, burning for over five decades. Camp under the stars in traditional yurts and savor local cuisine. Continue to the capital city, Ashgabat, for a guided tour of its grand monuments, futuristic architecture, and cultural landmarks. Conclude with a visit to the ancient Silk Road city of Merv, exploring mausoleums, fortresses, and UNESCO-protected ruins.
Itinerary
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Day 1: Explore Ancient Capitals and the Fiery Desert
- Meet your guide at the Dashoguz Border and complete arrival formalities.
Drive to Köneürgenç (Kunya Urgench), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the Portal of Caravansaray, Mamun Minaret, and II Arslan Mausoleum.
Explore the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, Academy of Horezm, and Kutlug Timur Minaret.
Admire the architectural beauty of Turabek Hanum Mausoleum.
Depart for Darvaza Gas Crater (270 km, 4–5 hours) through the Karakum Desert.
Stop to view nearby water and mud craters along the way.
Arrive at the burning Darvaza Gas Crater, glowing for over 50 years.
Breathe in the fresh desert air and observe the nomadic lifestyle.
Set up camp in a Turkmen national yurt or private tents near the crater.
Enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner under the stars beside the burning crater.
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Day 2: Discover Modern Ashgabat
- Have a picnic-style breakfast beside the Darvaza Crater.
Depart for Ashgabat and enjoy the desert landscapes during the drive.
Arrive in Ashgabat and begin a comprehensive city tour.
Visit the Wedding Palace and admire the futuristic “Yildyz” Hotel.
Ride the Ferris Wheel and stop by the Constitution Monument.
View the Arch of Neutrality and stroll through the Independence Monument and Park.
Explore the impressive Ertogrul Gazy Mosque and Olympic Stadium.
Pay respects at the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex.
Check in at your hotel and spend the night in Ashgabat.
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Day 3: Uncover Ancient Merv and Depart
- Eat breakfast at the hotel and prepare for an early departure.
Drive to Mary (2–3 hours) and begin a guided tour of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and both Large and Small Gyz Gala fortresses.
See the ancient Muhammed ibn Zaid Mausoleum and Keshk Fortress ruins.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Mary.
Drive to Turkmenabat (3–4 hours) and arrive at the Farab Border.
Complete border formalities and prepare for departure.
What's Included
What's Excluded
Meeting Point
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.
Price
| Adult | |
|---|---|
| 1 to 1 | /person |
| 2 to 2 | /person |
| 3 to 5 | /person |
| Child | |
| 1 to 1 | /person |
| 2 to 5 | /person |
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This is a private tour |
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