4-Day Turkmenistan Express Tour with Darwaza and UNESCO Merv

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Explore the modern capital of Ashgabat
• 02 Visit the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Silk Road
• 03 Witness the awe-inspiring Darwaza Gas Crater
• 04 Discover tribal cemeteries and pilgrimage sites in Nohur village

Maximize your time in Turkmenistan with this 4-day express tour covering the country's must-see destinations. Explore the modern capital of Ashgabat, visit the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and major Silk Road center, and witness the awe-inspiring Darwaza Gas Crater. The journey also takes you to Nohur village in the Kopetdag mountains, where you will discover tribal cemeteries, pilgrimage sites, and silk weaving homes.

The journey also takes you to Nohur village in the Kopetdag mountains, where you will discover tribal cemeteries, pilgrimage sites, and silk weaving homes.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Ashgabat, Mari, Darvaza

Languages English, German, Japanese, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Ashgabat City Tour and Darwaza Gas Crater

• Early in the morning, meet your guide at Ashgabat International Airport and begin the day with a city tour of Ashgabat. During the tour, explore the archaeological site of Old Nisa, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visit the Russian Bazaar, the Monument of Neutrality, and the newly built Independence Park. You will also see the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque.
• In the afternoon, start driving to Darwaza. Stop at the Mud and Water gas craters along the way, then arrive at the Fiery Gas Crater for sightseeing. Camp in the area and stay overnight in a yurt.
• Included meal: dinner around the Gas Crater

2

Day 02

Darwaza Return and Nohur Village Excursion

• In the morning, depart for Ashgabat and arrive by lunchtime. After lunch, drive to Nohur village in the Kopetdag mountains. Visit tribal cemeteries and pilgrimage sites, and see silk weaving homes. Then drive back to Ashgabat, transfer to your hotel, and stay overnight.
• Included meal: lunch in a traditional restaurant

3

Day 03

Full-Day Merv and Mary Excursion

• Start at 8:00 and drive to Mary for a full day of sightseeing in Mary town and Merv History Park, a UNESCO site. Enjoy an excursion to Merv, an ancient city that was once a major center of international trade and crafts on the Silk Road. Discover the historical park, including the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Large and Small Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, and Keshk Fortress. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church, then drive back to Ashgabat for an overnight stay at the hotel.
• Included meal: lunch in a traditional restaurant

4

Day 04

Departure from Ashgabat

• Transfer to the airport and depart from Turkmenistan.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Transport throughout the tour by minivan or crossover-type car
• Accommodation on the basis of a double room, with breakfasts included
• Dinner in Darwaza
• Sightseeing tour program
• Visa support for a Turkmenistan visa (invitation $90)
• English-speaking guide accompanying you in Turkmenistan
• Entrance tickets to attractions according to the itinerary in Turkmenistan
• Personal travel insurance

What's Not Included

• Full board (lunches and dinners)
• Charges for additional services in the hotel
• Consular fees for issuing tourist visas in Turkmenistan ($100-120)
• Tickets for international flights before and after the tour
• Tips of $5-10 for each driver and guide are not included but will be appreciated

What to bring

Recommendations:

• Prepare for the heat: make sure you have hair products, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Dress in light, light-colored clothing.
• Comfortable shoes are essential for long excursions and walks in towns and villages.
• Make sure you have medical insurance to cover any unexpected events.
• Bring all necessary personal items, including medications if needed.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Ashgabat, Туркменистан

Tour start

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.