DAY 1: FARAP – ANCIENT MERV – MARY
- Arrival at Farap Border (Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan):
Proceed through the Farap checkpoint. Meet your English-speaking guide and driver. Begin your journey towards the ancient city of Merv, one of Central Asia’s most fascinating historical sites.
- En Route:
Light refreshments will be served during the drive.
- Arrival in Old Merv:
Experience a vibrant traditional show showcasing Turkmen culture and customs. Enjoy lunch in an authentic Turkmen yurt, followed by engaging master classes in traditional tamdyr bread-making.
- Cultural Activities:
- Ride the famous Akhal-Teke horses.
- Interact with the Turkmen Alabai (shepherd dogs).
- Witness and participate in age-old Turkmen traditions.
- Sightseeing:
Explore the ruins of ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, the last sultan of the Great Seljuk Empire (1118–1157), and the remains of his palace. The mausoleum, once part of a grand religious complex, reflects the architectural grandeur of that era.
- Return to Mary:
Visit a historic church en route.
- Evening:
Dinner in Mary followed by check-in at Hotel (4-star).
Overnight stay in Mary.
DAY 2: MARY – BOKURDAK – DARVAZA (GAS CRATER ADVENTURE)
- Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel, then depart via the highway (Awtobanh) toward Ashgabat.
- En Route Stop – Bokurdak Village:
Enjoy a traditional Turkmen lunch featuring Tamdyrlyama – a whole young lamb slow-cooked in a clay oven.
- Proceed to Darvaza (Gas Crater):
Continue your adventure to the world-renowned Darvaza Gas Crater, famously called the "Door to Hell". Located in the heart of the Garagum Desert, this burning natural gas field is a surreal and unforgettable sight.
- Cultural Stop:
Pause in a local village to visit a traditional Turkmen yurt.
- Evening at the Crater:
Savor a barbecue dinner beside the crater, under the desert stars.
Accommodation: Overnight in a traditional yurt camp. (Sleeping bags/tents for 1–2 people available on request. Each yurt accommodates up to 5 guests.)
DAY 3: DARVAZA – ASHGABAT (CITY TOUR & HORSE FARM VISIT)
- Morning:
Enjoy breakfast in Darvaza, then depart for Ashgabat (approx. 3-hour drive).
- Short Stop:
Visit the nearby Mud and Water Craters for a quick photo opportunity.
- Arrival in Ashgabat:
Visit the National Museum and Gokdepe Mosque.
Proceed to the Turkmen Horse Farm to see the majestic Akhal-Teke horses, a 5,000-year-old breed admired by historic figures such as Alexander the Great and Darius I. Known as “Golden Horses”, these are considered symbols of speed, endurance, and beauty.
- Note: Itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions.
- Hotel Check-In:
Relax and refresh at Hotel (4-star).
- Lunch:
Enjoy a local lunch at a café in Ashgabat.
- Evening City Tour:
Discover the beautiful white-marble city of Ashgabat, visiting its scenic parks, iconic monuments, and the Monument of Magtymguly Fragi. Explore the modern business centre.
Dinner in the city followed by overnight stay at the hotel.
DAY 4: DEPARTURE VIA BAJGIRAN (IRAN BORDER)
- Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel followed by free time to explore the Russian Bazaar and shop for local souvenirs and Turkmen jewellery.
- Check-out and Departure:
After a light lunch, proceed with your escort to the Bajgiran border checkpoint for your onward journey to Iran.
Thank you for traveling with us. Namaste — until we meet again!
