Turkmenistan · Desert Adventure

3-Day Turkmenistan History Tour with Darvaza Crater and Ashgabat

3 Days Round trip from Dashoguz Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Köneürgenç with its mausoleums, minarets, and historical ruins
02 Witness the breathtaking Darvaza Gas Crater, burning in the heart of the Karakum Desert for over 50 years
03 Discover modern Ashgabat on a guided city tour featuring the Wedding Palace, Arch of Neutrality, Constitution Monument, and Ertogrul Gazy Mosque
04 Visit the impressive Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex and the Ashgabat Olympic Stadium
05 Journey to the ancient city of Merv, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore treasures such as the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and Keshk Fortress

Experience an unforgettable 3-day journey through the heart of Turkmenistan, blending ancient history, natural wonders, and modern elegance. Visit the UNESCO-listed ruins of Köneürgenç, travel deep into the Karakum Desert to witness the mesmerizing Darvaza Gas Crater burning for over five decades, and camp under the stars in traditional yurts. Continue to Ashgabat for a guided tour of its grand monuments, futuristic architecture, and cultural landmarks, then conclude in the ancient Silk Road city of Merv with its mausoleums, fortresses, and UNESCO-protected ruins.

Arrive at the burning Darvaza Gas Crater, glowing for over 50 years.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Ashgabat, Dasoguz, Kunya Urgench, Turkmenabat, Mari, Karakum Desert, Darvaza

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Köneürgenç Ruins and Darvaza Desert Camp

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.

Day 02

Ashgabat City Tour and Monumental Landmarks

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.

Day 03

Ancient Merv Exploration and Farab Departure

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.