Turkmenistan · UNESCO Heritage Sites

3-Day Turkmenistan Tour from Dashoguz to Farap via Darvaza and Merv

3 Days Round trip from Дашогузский велаят Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Central Asia's key archaeological sites
02 Witness the spectacular Darvaza Gas Crater illuminated by fire after sunset
03 Discover Ashgabat's white marble landmarks, monuments, parks, and panoramic city views
04 Tour Koneurgench's historic mausoleums and see the Kutlug Timur Minaret
05 Visit Old Nisa, the UNESCO-listed fortress linked to the Parthian Empire

Take a three-day trip across the stunning scenery and rich history of Turkmenistan, from Dashoguz to the Farap border. Explore Koneurgench, the ancient capital of Khorezm, with its historic mausoleums and the Kutlug Timur Minaret, then witness the breathtaking Darvaza Gas Crater glowing after dusk. Continue through Ashgabat's historical and modern landmarks, including Old Nisa, the Monument of Independence, and the world's tallest flagpole. Before the tour ends, discover Ancient Merv, one of Central Asia's key archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy the mesmerizing view, especially after sunset.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Ashgabat, Dasoguz, Kunya Urgench, Mari, Darvaza

Languages Azerbaijani, English, Russian, Turkish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Dashoguz Border Arrival, Koneurgench and Darvaza

Morning: Arrive at the Dashoguz border of Turkmenistan, complete customs procedures, and meet your guide.
Late morning: Drive to Koneurgench, the ancient capital of Khorezm, a UNESCO-listed site since 2005. Explore historical landmarks such as the mausoleums of II Arslan, Soltan Tekesh, Nejmeddin Kubra, Soltan Ali, and Turabek-Khanum. Do not miss the Kutlug Timur Minaret.
Afternoon: Drive to Darvaza (approx. 4-5 hours, 270 km) to visit the Gas Crater, a spectacular flaming crater. Enjoy the mesmerizing view, especially after sunset.
Evening: Stay overnight at a camp near the crater in a yurt. Enjoy a picnic-style dinner and rest.

Day 02

Darvaza, Ashgabat City Tour and Drive to Mary

Early morning: Have breakfast at the camp and depart for Ashgabat (approx. 4 hours, 270 km).
Late morning: There is an option to stop at the Eastern Bazaar to shop for local handicrafts.
Afternoon: Arrive in Ashgabat and, after a short rest, begin your Ashgabat city tour.
- Visit the Old Nisa fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the Parthian Empire.
- Explore the Saparmyrat Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mausoleum and Mosque, the world's highest flagpole at 133 meters, and the Monument and Park of Independence.
- Visit the Magtymguly Monument and Park, the Wedding Palace, and the Ertogrul Gazy Mosque.
- Ride the famous Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city.
- End the day with a visit to a shopping and entertainment center.
- Then drive from Ashgabat to Mary City (350 km, 3 hours).
Evening: Check in to the hotel for an overnight rest in Mary City.

Day 03

Ancient Merv and Farap Border Departure

Early morning: After breakfast, explore Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Central Asia's key archaeological sites. Visit the ancient cities of Erk-kala, Gyaur-kala, Kyz-kala, Sultan-kala, and Abdullakhan-kala.
Afternoon: After exploring Merv, drive to Lebap Province and reach the Farap border around 15:00.
Evening: Complete the border crossing. End of the tour.

Where this trip takes you

Kutlug Timur Minaret, Darvaza Gas Crater at night, Old Nisa fortress, Ancient Merv ruins

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Дашогузский велаят 5 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Tour package (LOI, registration fee, permit fee)
Accommodation: hotel - 1 night; camp/yurt stay - 1 night (dinner and breakfast)
Guide - 3 days
Transport - 3 days
Transfers throughout the entire route
Entry tickets (Kone-Urgench, Nissa, Ancient Merv)
Daily water

What's Not Included

Visa fee
Migration tax: 12 USD + 4 USD bank fee
Extra meals and services
Personal expenses and gratuities
Insurance

Know before you go

Meet the guide at the Dashoguz border of Turkmenistan. The meeting time with the guide depends on when you cross the border.
If you are coming as a group, be sure to contact me and we will offer you a nice discount.

Logistics