DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ASHGABAT – WELCOME TO TURKMENISTAN
- Arrival and Transfer
Welcome to Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, where modernity meets tradition. Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, known for its futuristic falcon-inspired design, you’ll be greeted by a warm welcome. After completing immigration formalities, our representative will assist you with a smooth transfer to your hotel. Choose between the luxurious 5* "Sport Hotel" or the more affordable 3* "Mizan Hotel", both offering prime locations in the city.
- Morning Leisure
Since check-in is available after 12:00 PM, you can leave your luggage in the hotel lobby and enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby cafe. After the meal, relax and explore the city or rest at the hotel.
- Dinner at Gala Restaurant
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the Gala Restaurant, located at the foothills of the majestic Kopet Dag Mountains.
- Overnight
Return to the hotel for a restful night.
DAY 2: JOURNEY TO THE ANCIENT MERV – THE PEARL OF THE SILK ROAD
- Breakfast and Departure
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, depart Ashgabat via the modern “Autoban” highway, offering picturesque views of the Karakum Desert.
- Merv - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Arrive in Merv, a city that played a key role in the ancient Silk Road. This archaeological gem will transport you back in time. Explore:
- Erk-kala: The central fortress and royal residence.
- Gyaur-kala: The outer city, home to bustling markets and residential areas.
- Abdullakhan-kala & Sultan-kala: Two formidable fortresses, one dating back to the 12th century.
- Museum: Discover ancient artifacts at the Merv Museum.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning views of Merv and the surrounding Karakum Desert.
- Cultural Show and Lunch
Experience a vibrant national show with traditional dances, music, and a taste of Turkmen cuisine. Afterward, savor a traditional Turkmen lunch before heading back to Ashgabat.
- Evening in Ashgabat
Enjoy a light dinner at a local cafe and relax at your hotel.
DAY 3: EXPLORE DAKHESTAN & BALKAN REGION – UNVEILING ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS
- Departure for Dakhestan
Enjoy breakfast and set out for an adventure to the ancient Dakhestan region. Travel across the Karakum Desert in comfortable SUVs, and stop at the awe-inspiring Kow-Ata Underground Lake, a hydrogen sulfide lake nestled within a cave.
- Dakhestan – Cradle of Civilization
This archaeological treasure offers a glimpse into ancient cities, fortresses, and temples. Dakhestan's significance as a trading hub on the Silk Road is showcased through its impressive ruins.
- Lunch in Gumdag
Stop at the village of Gumdag for a delightful meal featuring traditional dishes like pilaf, manti, and shurpa.
- Overnight in Nebitdag
Proceed to Nebitdag, where you’ll check into a 3* hotel. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local cafe, accompanied by traditional music and dance.
DAY 4: YANGIKALA CANYON – FUTURISTIC LANDSCAPES OF MARS
- Breakfast and Departure
After breakfast, embark on a journey to Yangikala Canyon, a mesmerizing natural wonder with its fiery red, pink, and orange limestone formations.
- Yangikala Canyon Exploration
The canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia", offers panoramic views and unique rock formations like the Crocodile's Mouth.
- Lunch in the Canyon
Relish a traditional barbecue lunch amidst the striking landscapes of the canyon.
- Return to Ashgabat
On the way back to Ashgabat, stop at Soygi Dag (optional), a scenic mountain gorge. Upon arrival in Ashgabat, relax at your hotel before dinner.
DAY 5: THE GATES OF HELL – DARVAZA ADVENTURE
- Morning at the Gates of Hell
After breakfast, drive to the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Gates of Hell”. This fiery crater is one of Turkmenistan’s most fascinating natural wonders.
- Lunch and Visit to Turkmen Alabai Kennel
Visit the Turkmen Alabai kennel to see the majestic Turkmen wolfhounds. Afterward, enjoy lunch before heading to Darvaza.
- Yurt Stay in the Desert
Experience life in the desert by staying in a traditional Turkmen yurt, a round, felt-covered tent offering comfort and warmth. Enjoy an open-air feast with a traditional desert barbecue.
- Starry Night and Adventure
As night falls, stargaze in the clear desert sky, enjoy the warmth of the fire, and take memorable photos against the backdrop of the glowing crater.
DAY 6: GEOKDEPE AND NISA – IMMERSION IN HISTORY
- Morning Picnic and Departure
Start your day with a picnic near the Gates of Hell, followed by a scenic drive to Geokdepe, a historical site famous for the heroic resistance of the Turkmen people.
- Geokdepe Highlights
Visit the Geok-Tepe Fortress, the Saparmurat Haji Mosque, and the Gokdepe National Museum, where you can learn about the history of the fortress and the Turkmen people.
- Nisa – Ancient Capital
Next, travel to Nisa, the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its ruins and the archaeological treasures it holds.
- Evening in Ashgabat
Return to Ashgabat and unwind at a local restaurant, reflecting on your historical exploration.
DAY 7: ASHGABAT CITY TOUR AND DEPARTURE
- City Tour
Spend your final day exploring Ashgabat. Visit:
- Independence Park and the Independence Monument
- Arch of Neutrality
- Turkmen Carpet Museum
- Ertugrulgazy Mosque
- White City, a modern district with impressive white marble buildings.
- Lunch and Local Markets
Enjoy lunch in a national cafe before visiting the Russian Bazaar and Golden Age Bazaar for unique souvenirs.
- Farewell
In the evening, enjoy your last free time in Ashgabat before being transferred to the airport for your return flight.
Thank you for traveling with us. Namaste — until we meet again!
