Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan · UNESCO Heritage Sites

4-Day Silk Road Tour from Dashoguz to Bukhara via Darvaza and Merv

4 Days Round trip from Ashgabat Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Ashgabat's white-marble monuments and vibrant city life
02 Visit Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site
03 Witness the Darvaza Gas Crater ("Gates of Hell") in the Karakum Desert
04 Travel along historic Silk Road routes while experiencing Turkmen culture and nomadic traditions

Discover the timeless beauty of Turkmenistan on this 4-day journey along the Great Silk Road. Explore Ashgabat's striking white-marble architecture, visit Ancient Merv, and witness the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater in the Karakum Desert. Travel historic caravan routes, learn about Turkmen culture and nomadic traditions, and enjoy local hospitality along the way. This immersive tour blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes with unforgettable photography opportunities and a seamless overland experience from Dashoguz to the Farap border.

Explore Ashgabat's striking white-marble architecture, visit Ancient Merv, and witness the fiery Darvaza Gas Crater in the Karakum Desert.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Premium

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Ashgabat, Bukhara, Dasoguz, Turkmenabat, Mari, Darvaza

Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Dashoguz Arrival and Darvaza Gas Crater

Meet at Shavat border, Dashoguz.
Enjoy a short city tour and coffee break.
Travel to the Darvaza Gas Crater ("The Gates of Hell").
Check in at the yurt camp.
Have a BBQ dinner and enjoy a crater inspection photo shoot.

Day 02

Darvaza Gas Crater to Ashgabat

Breakfast at the campsite.
Travel to Ashgabat.
Enjoy a city tour featuring the Arch of Neutrality, Russian Bazaar, local malls, the Ferris wheel, and the monument to the poet Makhtumkuli.
Explore Ashgabat's shopping centres.

Day 03

Ashgabat to Mary and Ancient Merv

Breakfast at the hotel.
Visit the National Museum of Turkmenistan and Artugrulgazy Mosque.
Depart from Ashgabat to Mary.
Explore the Ancient City of Merv.
Enjoy a scenic drive through Mary city.
Lunch at a local restaurant.

Overnight at a hotel in Mary.

Day 04

Mary to Turkmenabad and Farap Border

Breakfast at the hotel.
Travel to Turkmenabad.
Cross the border to Bukhara with full assistance during customs.

Where this trip takes you

Darvaza Gas Crater, the Karakum Desert, Ancient Merv

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Ashgabat 6 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Tour package, letter of invitation, registration fee, and permit fee
Accommodation: "Mizan" 3-star hotel in Ashgabat and "Rahatlyk" in Mary
Meals: breakfast at hotels, plus BBQ dinner and breakfast at the Gas Crater camp
Professional guide for 4 days
Transport for 4 days
Daily 2 litres of drinking water per person
Entrance tickets to all listed sites

What's Not Included

Visa fee (55-85 USD)
COVID-19 test (30 USD)
Private expenses
Travel and medical insurance
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary

What to bring

Comfortable clothing suitable for warm days and cooler evenings
Sturdy footwear for walking and exploring various sites
Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun
A camera to capture stunning sights and memorable moments
Personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, and any necessary medications
A water bottle to stay hydrated during excursions
A portable charger for electronic devices
A small backpack for daily essentials
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially near the Darvaza Gas Crater
Snacks for the journey, in addition to provided meals

Know before you go

Travel Documents: Carry your passport, visa, and any required permits.
Currency: The local currency is the Turkmenistani manat (TMT); keep some cash, as credit cards may be limited.
Weather: Check forecasts and pack accordingly; temperatures can vary between day and night.
Health Precautions: Bring personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
Communication: English is limited; translation apps or basic Turkmen/Russian phrases are helpful.
Safety: Stay with your group or guide and keep valuables secure.
Time Zone: Turkmenistan operates on TMT (UTC+5).
Electrical Outlets: Standard voltage is 220 V, frequency 50 Hz; bring appropriate adapters.
Local Etiquette: Greet with a handshake and ask before photographing locals.

Logistics